Migration is the key challenge for Brexit - Paolo Salvia

The Deputy Head of Mission of the European Union (EU) Delegation in Ghana, Paolo Salvia, says migration is the main challenge facing the British exit from the European Union (EU).

Speaking to Journalists on the theme ‘The State of the European Union Today’ at the University of Ghana, Paolo Salvia said migration issues have become very important and thus have had an impact on recent elections within the EU member states.

Last year, the United Kingdom (UK) voted in a referendum to leave the European Union when a referendum in which nearly everyone of voting age took part was held on Thursday, June 23, 2016. 51.9% of the people voted to leave whilst 48.1% voted to stay. The referendum turnout was 71.8%, with more than 30 million people voting.

England voted for Brexit, by 53.4% to 46.6%. Wales also voted for Brexit, with Leave getting 52.5% of the vote and Remain 47.5%. Scotland and Northern Ireland both backed staying in the EU. Scotland backed Remain by 62% to 38%, while 55.8% in Northern Ireland voted Remain and 44.2% Leave.

Although the UK is expected to leave the EU by 29 March 2019, the Deputy Head of Mission of EU admits there is a major challenge.

He said even though the EU is coming out of crisis, the dire Economic situation among members is still evident and has resulted in inequality in Europe.

He said the EU will be meeting in Ivory Coast to find new proposals for strong partnership which will focus on what President Akufo-Addo is preaching for Ghana thus focusing on trade instead of aid.