The United Kingdom could potentially rejoin the European Union under special terms that would not require adopting the euro or joining the Schengen area.
This possibility emerges as the UK marks the 10-year anniversary of the Brexit referendum in June 2026 [4]. The prospect of a return to the bloc comes amid shifting political dynamics under a new Labour government and growing public dissatisfaction with the results of the 2016 vote.
Michel Barnier, the former EU chief Brexit negotiator, said the UK could rejoin on special terms without being forced to adopt the euro or join the Schengen area [1]. Such an arrangement would represent a departure from standard accession requirements, potentially offering a middle ground for a country that remains divided over its European identity.
Public sentiment appears to have shifted since the original vote on June 23, 2016 [1]. While approximately 52% of Britons originally voted to leave the EU [2], recent data indicates that 57% of Britons now regret the decision [3]. This trend suggests a growing appetite for closer ties with Brussels as the economic and political costs of the divorce become clearer.
Analysts suggest that a return would not be a simple reversal of the previous exit. A Breakingviews author said rejoining the EU would likely involve a bespoke deal, similar to the arrangements Norway enjoys with the bloc [2]. Such a model would allow the UK to access the single market while maintaining a degree of regulatory and political autonomy.
Despite the potential for a tailored deal, the process remains complex. The 10-year mark has highlighted that bitterness still prevails over the vote [3], a reminder that any move toward re-accession would face intense scrutiny from those who view Brexit as a fundamental achievement of national sovereignty.
“"The United Kingdom could re‑join the EU on special terms, without being forced to adopt the euro or join the Schengen area."”
The discussion of 'special terms' signals a pragmatic shift in how the EU might handle a returning member state. By suggesting that the UK could bypass the euro and Schengen area, Barnier is proposing a blueprint for a 'variable geometry' Europe. This would allow the bloc to regain a major economic power without forcing that power to adhere to the most politically sensitive integration milestones, potentially creating a precedent for other nations seeking flexible membership.
