This briefing paper is designed to inform discussion regarding the need and options for regulatory alignment on the island of Ireland in the context of Brexit and, in particular, the UK-EU Joint Report of 8 December 2017.
It first discusses key principles and practices regarding the regulatory context for cross-border trade and cooperation on the island of Ireland (Section I).
It then sets out the implications of the commitments of the UK and the EU stated in the Joint Report, centering on the avoidance of a hard border and the protection of the 1998 Agreement (Section II).
Read more of David and Katy’s analysis by clicking here.
About the Authors
David Phinnemore is Professor of European Politics and Jean Monnet Chair in European Political Science in the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics at Queen's University Belfast. Professor Phinnemore's research interests cover EU treaty reform, EU enlargement, EU external relations and alternatives to EU membership, particularly association.
Katy Hayward is a Professor in Sociology in the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work at Queen's University Belfast. She has particular expertise on cross-border cooperation and management, focusing on the case study of Ireland/Northern Ireland and the impact of EU membership.
