Gibraltar Removes Border with Spain After Brexit Deal

Pedro Sánchez announced the removal of the border between Gibraltar and Spain following an agreement signed in Brussels between the European Union and the United Kingdom. The agreement, reached six years after Brexit, establishes a new framework for relations between Gibraltar and EU countries.

The dismantling of the barrier began yesterday, impacting the 15,500 people, 70% of whom are Spanish, who previously crossed the border daily for work. Gibraltar has been under British rule since 1713, and Spain has long sought to regain sovereignty over the territory.

The previous border closure under Franco’s regime lasted from 1966 to 1982. While some Spanish political factions still advocate for full sovereignty, the new agreement offers benefits to both Gibraltarians and Spanish citizens in the surrounding area.

The agreement shifts border controls to the airport, shared by Spanish and Gibraltarian police, and aims to improve economic exchange. Gibraltarians overwhelmingly favor maintaining their British status while also enjoying close ties with the EU, as demonstrated by a 96% vote to remain in the EU during the Brexit referendum.