From January 2027, after a six-year hiatus, British students will be able to use the European Union’s Erasmus+ exchange program, which was suspended after Brexit, writes Politico.
The return to the exchange program is one of the first tangible changes achieved by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as he restores ties with the EU. Starmer is trying to smooth over the acrimony caused by Brexit during Boris Johnson’s term, while maintaining distance.
In a joint statement on the 17th of December, Brussels and London confirmed that formal talks have begun on Britain’s return to the EU’s internal electricity market. Both sides hope that the agreement, long called for by industry representatives on both sides of the Channel, will reduce electricity costs and facilitate green energy projects in the North Sea. Both sides have also pledged to continue talks on a new food trade agreement. The date for the 2026 meeting has not yet been set, but it is expected to take place in Brussels, likely in May.
Britain’s Europe Secretary of State Nick Thomas-Symonds, who helped broker the deal, said it was a major win for young Britons and would help break down barriers and broaden horizons so that everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to study abroad. He said
the programme was about more than just travel – it helped build skills, achieve academic success
and give the next generation access to the best opportunities. “Today’s agreements prove that our new partnership with the EU is working. We have focused on the public’s priorities and secured a deal that puts opportunity first,” Thomas-Symonds said.
The EU ambassador to the UK, Pedro Serrano, said the conclusion of the Erasmus talks showed that the questions of young people on both sides of the Channel had been answered, and opened the door not only to students but also to trainees, pupils, teachers, youth workers and participants in adult education programmes. The UK’s participation in Erasmus+ is expected to cost around 570 million pounds in 2027.
Serrano also added that Britain’s return to the EU’s internal electricity market would increase security in the energy sector, benefit consumers and businesses, and allow for joint investment projects, which are now more important than ever.
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