Angela Merkel on Brexit

Angela Merkel’s core position on Brexit was one of firm adherence to the integrity of the European Union, fundamentally rejecting the possibility of bespoke access for the departing United Kingdom. Following the 2016 referendum, she expressed disappointment and a sense of abandonment, yet she remained pragmatic in managing the subsequent separation process with the EU27. Her administration maintained the principle that the EU single market freedoms—the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people—were indivisible. This stance was crucial in negotiations, as she warned against any form of cherry-picking, where the UK might select desired market access without accepting responsibilities like budget contributions or judicial oversight.

Her approach emphasized the need for the EU to remain unified and send a clear signal to other member states that leaving the bloc would result in a tangible loss of privileges. The former German Chancellor viewed a no-deal scenario as potentially sending a negative global signal regarding multilateralism, though her primary focus remained on ensuring the withdrawal terms were strictly applied. While she felt personal disappointment over the vote, her actions and public statements during the negotiation period were characterised by a consistent, principled commitment to the bloc's internal structure, treating Brexit as a necessary but regrettable separation.