In a historic and unprecedented referendum, on June 23, 2016 the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, renouncing a 43–year old relationship which saw the UK, alongside other European Member States, develop common legislation, values, civil liberties and funding programmes. In triggering Article 50, UK Prime Minister Theresa May vowed to negotiate future ties with the EU, both politically and economically, including possible continued participation in some specific European programmes. 

The Withdrawal Agreement (‘May’s Deal’), agreed upon by all Member States but is yet to be approved by UK the parliament, outlines provisions for the UK to continue its participation, post-Brexit, in all EU programmes for the rest of the 2014-2020 Multiannual Financial Framework.  

Nevertheless, the UK’s seamless participation primarily relies on parliament’s ability to reach a compromise and accept a post-Brexit deal before March 29. However, in the case of a ‘no deal’, the UK government has guaranteed funding for British people involved in EU-funded projects, which were initiated prior to the UK’s departure, providing more certainty for their continued participation. 

Any queries related to Brexit may be directed to the newly set-up Maltese Government helpline 153, or you may opt to contact MEUSAC on 2200 3300 or by sending an e-mail to info.meusac@gov.mt.