Former EU Brexit Negotiator Says UK Could Rejoin Bloc Faster Than Expected
Michel Barnier, the European Union’s former chief Brexit negotiator, has suggested that the United Kingdom could potentially rejoin the EU more quickly than many expect if a future British government chooses that path.
Speaking at a Brexit anniversary event in London, Barnier argued that the UK’s continued alignment with many European regulations could simplify the technical aspects of any future accession process. While he did not provide a specific timetable, he indicated that the administrative process could be relatively short compared with the political decisions required to pursue membership.
Barnier stressed, however, that any return to the bloc would require full acceptance of EU membership obligations, reiterating that there would be no special arrangements or selective participation in key aspects of the single market.
The former negotiator also outlined a broader vision for European cooperation, proposing a new security and defense framework that could include non-EU countries such as the UK and Norway. He said closer coordination would strengthen Europe’s strategic position and enhance regional security cooperation.
According to Barnier, such a structure could operate alongside existing European institutions and provide a platform for collaboration on defense and security challenges, including support for Ukraine and wider continental stability.
His remarks come amid ongoing debate about the future relationship between the UK and the European Union, six years after Britain formally left the bloc.
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