The European Commission has recommended starting negotiations with the UK on a youth mobility agreement.
- Abta and Seasonal Businesses in Travel (SBiT) have advocated for easier mobility for young individuals post-Brexit.
- The tourism industry faces challenges due to restrictions, with a 69% drop in UK nationals working in Europe.
- Negotiations could allow young people to work and study in Europe without full visas for up to two years.
- Both Abta and SBiT emphasise the importance of youth mobility for cultural and economic relations post-Brexit.
The recent move by the European Commission to initiate talks with the United Kingdom on a youth mobility agreement has been met with positive reactions from key industry bodies, including Abta and Seasonal Businesses in Travel (SBiT). These organisations have long been lobbying for such an agreement, which aims to ease the restrictions imposed on young British and European citizens seeking to experience working and living in each other’s territories.
The proposed youth mobility scheme seeks to address the significant decline in the number of UK nationals occupying tourism-related roles within Europe, a consequence of post-Brexit legislative changes. Research indicates a staggering 69% reduction in these roles, highlighting the urgent need for reform. Neglecting this issue could further hamper the UK’s travel and tourism sector, already grappling with diminished labour mobility.
Abta’s director of public affairs, Luke Petherbridge, has expressed strong support for the European Commission’s recommendation, urging the UK government to be prompt in initiating negotiations once the proposal gains approval. He underscores that the post-Brexit environment has been especially challenging for young individuals eager to join the tourism industry, limiting their opportunities and experiences that formerly served as vital career stepping stones.
Charles Owen, managing director at SBiT, further advocates for the youth mobility agreement, describing it as a ‘win-win’ situation for both the UK and Europe. He calls on the Prime Minister to actively participate in discussions with the outbound industry to ensure well-prepared negotiations. According to Owen, the matter is not merely economic but also holds significant cultural importance, potentially strengthening ties and understanding between the regions.
The call for a youth mobility agreement underscores the critical need for collaboration to enhance opportunities and repair post-Brexit relations.
