Gibraltar border fence demolished as EU-UK treaty takes effect

The border fence between Spain and Gibraltar, known as the Verja, was demolished on July 15, 2026, as the EU-UK treaty on Gibraltar's post-Brexit status entered into force. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez led a symbolic demolition ceremony, calling it "the last wall of continental Europe" Source: ABC, La Vanguardia. The fence, installed over a century ago, had been a source of daily delays for thousands of cross-border workers.

Key points:

• The treaty integrates Gibraltar into the Schengen area under Spanish responsibility, moving border controls to the airport and port Source: Euronews.
• Sánchez emphasized "prosperity shared" for the Campo de Gibraltar region, with over 300,000 residents expected to benefit Source: Infobae.
• Gibraltar's Chief Minister Fabian Picardo celebrated the removal, remarking "we have removed Franco's fence" Source: COPE.
• Local mayor Juan Franco called it a "historic day" but stressed the need for accompanying measures on housing, pensions, and a special economic zone Source: Infobae.

Reactions: The demolition was met with celebration from residents, though some expressed caution about unresolved issues like fishing rights and environmental concerns. The event was postponed from July 13 due to a devastating wildfire in Almería Source: Euronews.