What is the windsor framework?

The Windsor Framework is a 2023 agreement between the UK and the EU on trade rules for Northern Ireland after Brexit. It replaced much of the Northern Ireland Protocol. It reduces checks on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, while keeping the Irish land border open.

After Brexit, the UK and EU agreed there should be no hard border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. That was vital to the peace process. The Northern Ireland Protocol kept Northern Ireland following some EU goods rules, so checks happened at ports instead. Many unionists said this cut Northern Ireland off from the rest of the UK. The Windsor Framework, agreed in February 2023, created a 'green lane' with lighter checks for goods staying in Northern Ireland. A 'red lane' covers goods that may move on into the EU. It also added the Stormont Brake. This lets members of the Northern Ireland Assembly object to some new EU rules. Some unionists still oppose it. Supporters say it has made trade within the UK smoother.