Weighing up alternative arrangements to the backstop

This briefing provides a model of border management based on three ‘cornerstones’. It is intended to offer a framework for understanding the ways in which the backstop and alternative arrangements would work. In addition, it includes an overview of the ways in which technology can help in customs facilitation. It also offers an explanation as to why the social environment must be taken into account.

It concludes with matrixes outlining key considerations when implementing any border ‘solution’. This paper is not intended to address the specific complexities of the case of the Irish border but merely to offer broad guidelines for the viability of any proposed border management system or part thereof.

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