Although Brexit will be at the center of the debate, some issues will be discussed at the meeting of the members of the European Union – with the exception of the United Kingdom – which will take place in Bratislava from Wednesday. The President of the European Council, Donald Tusk, addressed these issues in a letter: In addition to Brexit, he has talked about the migration crisis, relations with Russia and jihadism.

Regarding the migration crisis, Tusk believes that “the lack of a rapid and unified response to the situation has diminished the confidence of society in the authorities.” According to him, “it is vitally important to restore the balance between freedom and security”, for which he has considered it necessary to “strengthen the opening and protection of the external borders, in addition to promoting effective control”.

In fact, “the migration crisis has left the European Union on the brink of collapse.” He believes that security is one of the main concerns of Europeans and has linked this to jihadism: “We need to control everyone in our external border databases.”

Brexit, the responsibility of all Europeans

Tusk calls for Brexit not to be seen as just a British problem. According to him, “the result of the consultation is a reflection of the daily worries of millions of Europeans.” Some examples are the security of society and of each country, the protection of their interests, culture and/or way of life. According to Tusk, “these issues should be reconsidered even if the UK votes to stay in the EU.”

It calls on European states to maintain good relations with the post-Brexit United Kingdom, but warns that there will be no negotiations until there is an official British declaration on exit intentions. In the meantime, he suggested that they should act with a sense of community of EU Member States.