What is article 50?

Synopsis

The British people have voted to leave the European Union, and their decision must be respected. Although Britain has voted to exit, it has not yet left the EU. The legal process for leaving is outlined in Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which is complex and unprecedented. Once the Prime Minister formally declares the intention to leave, a two-year countdown begins. During this period, Britain must negotiate with the EU on various issues, including the rights of EU migrants, the status of British citizens living abroad, border controls, and financial obligations to the EU budget. David Cameron states that the next Prime Minister will need to invoke Article 50, while the European Union emphasizes the urgency of moving forward with the decision made by the British people. Angela Merkel comments on the need for a balanced approach, acknowledging that both reason and emotion will influence the negotiations ahead.