20. Epilogue

Abstract

This chapter explores the past, present, and future of Brexit. It begins by offering a historical overview of British membership in the Union. With its commitment to European integration often selective, the United Kingdom had come to be seen as an ‘awkward partner’ within the European Union. The chapter then looks at the process of withdrawal and, in particular, the nature and content of Article 50 TEU—the provision that regulates the process. Subsequently, it analyses the post-Brexit Withdrawal Agreement that governs the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom today. Finally, the chapter tries to look into the future and discusses the prospective partnership options that have been on the diplomatic table for the post-2020 economic relations between the European Union and the United Kingdom.