Brexit Debate

"Britain Has Not Voted Against Europe, But Against the Brussels Rent-Seeking Establishment Led by an Increasingly Autocratic Elite" - Hans-Werner Sinns Statement on the Brexit, June 24th, 2016

The fact that Great Britain is leaving the EU marks a turning point. The “ever closer union” has come to an end. Great Britain has not only turned away from Europe, but away from the Brussels-based rent-seeking establishment led by an increasingly autocratic elite.

Germany is the biggest loser from this decision because Britain’s exit makes the group of EU states in favour of free trade and market economy principles far smaller. Germany will now be voted down in many EU decisions that could have been prevented by a blocking minority of 35%. The fortress-like Europe now to be built will negatively impact German exports.

To prevent other countries from turning their back on Europe, the time has come to correct two major policy failures: the rules on how the euro works and on immigration into countries with generous welfare states. The euro and the principle of inclusion have failed in their present form. Far-reaching reforms are now needed to safeguard their survival.

Hans-Werner Sinn supported the petition for Exit of Brexit: A “New Deal“ with Great Britain and a better future for the EU

Text introducing the petition:
The undersigned are calling on all Europeans who believe that the EU can only be a true European Union with Britain as a member. They are convinced that Brexit CAN be averted, but only if the EU offers „A New Deal for Britain“. Such a deal must allow Britain more autonomy, particularly in the area of immigration. The EU, not just the UK, would benefit from such a deal. Therefore they call it a „New Deal for Britain and the EU“. Please sign this petition if you believe that it is worth trying to prevent the Brexit in the very last minute.

Presentations

What Brexit means for Europe: A German Perspective, Cambridge Judge Business School, 4. März 2019

 

 

Policy Contributions and Newspaper Articles

From a No-Deal Brexit to a No Brexit Deal, Project Syndicate, January 30th, 2019.

A Two-Speed Post-Brexit Europe is Best Avoided, Financial Times online, April 16th, 2017.

Why the EU Must Be Generous to Britain, Project Syndicate, January 2017.

Saving Freedom of Movement in Europe, Project Syndicate August 2016.

Brexit: The Unintended Consequences. A Symposium of Views, The International Economy, June 2nd, 2016, p. 8.

Twin Tests for the EU, Project Syndicate Mai 2016.

Radio & TV

“Brexit could cost Germany dearly”, Deutsche Welle, DW Business News, March 13th, 2018, approximately 10 minutes.

 

Further contributions in German