On Wednesday 9 May, the British government published its version of future relations with the European Union in the security arena.
London would like to create a close partnership in the security field that enables the two parties to continue to jointly manage global threats such as terrorism, cybercrime and natural disasters.
The security partnership will be based on several different pillars including internal and external security and would be further developed by provisions on the exchange of information and data
On the issue of internal security, the British government explains that simple third country status would represent a step backwards compared to the degree of protection currently provided. It is therefore planning to draft an internal security treaty that would cover the cooperation planned for third countries, whilst maintaining the degree of protection the country currently enjoys.
The country will apply 40 European mechanisms in the justice and home affairs field. This will involve maintaining instruments in areas where they have a mutual interest, such as the European arrest warrant and maintaining a very high degree of cooperation with Europol and Eurojust.
The United Kingdom would also like to continue to be involved or indeed cooperate within any subsequent amendment to the security instruments.
On the external pillar, London would like to establish regular structured dialogue with the EU as well as a “flexible thematic and geographic dialogue on shared priorities”. It is also proposing to take part in case-by-case European security and defence missions by contributing European personnel.
For further information: https://bit.ly/2wtldfa. (Original version in French by Solenn Paulic)