Introduction

The European Union (EU) operates under complex geopolitical and economic dynamics during negotiations with the United Kingdom (UK). Its realpolitik goals in the Brexit process involve several interconnected objectives aimed at safeguarding its interests, maintaining market integrity, preserving regional peace, and ensuring minimal economic damage to both itself and the UK.

Core Objectives of the EU in Brexit Negotiations

The European Union's primary goal is to ensure that the UK does not enjoy better access to the EU's internal market than its member states post-Brexit. This principle can be encapsulated in the famous metaphor of a situation where the UK cannot consume its 'cake' and still have it. Additionally, the EU aims to minimize economic damage to both the EU and the UK following the departure.

1. Preventing Market Inequality and Ensuring Fairness

The EU's first objective is to prevent the UK from gaining unfair access to the EU's internal market. This is crucial to maintain the integrity and fairness of the Single Market. The Withdrawal Agreement (WA) explicitly prohibits the UK from having better access than member states.

To achieve this, the EU aims to maintain the UK's dependence on the common market, albeit in a limited capacity. The WA, which includes a customs union but not single market membership, reflects this goal. While the arrangement may appear unfavorable to the UK, it ensures that the EU's market remains protected from potentially more competitive UK goods and services.

2. Minimizing Economic Harm

The EU's second goal is to mitigate the economic damage that might result from the UK's departure. Unlike those who advocate for leaving the EU, the EU believes that economic harm to the UK would also harm the EU's economy. Therefore, the EU's objective is to ensure a smooth transition that benefits both parties.

The EU seeks to protect the interests of its citizens living in the UK and UK citizens living in the EU. This is in line with its broader objective of promoting greater prosperity for its member states. The EU is unlikely to intentionally harm the UK's economy, as this would also negatively impact the EU.

3. Maintaining Regional Peace and Stability

Another critical objective is the preservation of peace in Ireland, particularly Northern Ireland. The EU upholds the provisions of the Good Friday Agreement, which seeks to maintain stability and prevent any resurgence of violence. This involves upholding all aspects of the agreement, including maintaining open borders and ensuring no hard border is reintroduced.

4. Financial Settlement and Upholding Commitments

The final goal is to secure a fair financial settlement with the UK. This includes honoring the financial commitments the UK made while a member state. The EU expects the UK to meet its past financial obligations, contributing to the EU's budget and other financial arrangements.

EU Realpolitik and Public Communication

Contrary to the narrative perpetuated by some, the EU operates in a transparent manner. All decisions are published in the EU's official journal, ensuring that no hidden agendas exist within the organization. Every decision is made by the Council of the EU, comprising relevant ministers, and the European Council, composed of elected heads of state or government. The EU's objectives, policies, and decisions are clearly communicated to ensure transparency and accountability.

Angela Merkel's Role and Posturing

Despite attempts to divide the UK effectively, such as Angela Merkel's insistence on Northern Ireland's continued membership in the EU customs union, it is important to recognize that this stance is untenable. There is no argument for the UK to remain in the EU, and Merkel's posturing reflects more of a political maneuver rather than genuine policy. The UK's vote to leave the EU was a clear indication of its sovereignty, and the EU's realpolitik should respect this decision.

Conclusion

In summary, the EU's realpolitik goals in the Brexit negotiations center around safeguarding the integrity of the Single Market, minimizing economic damage, maintaining regional peace, and upholding commitments. The EU aims to achieve as much of these ends as possible while giving away as little as necessary. Transparency and public communication are key principles that guide the EU's decision-making process, ensuring that all objectives are clearly articulated and understood.