Brussels-in-Exile – The European Parliament’s Temporary Home in Edinburgh
For the past two years, the European Parliament has been operating from an unlikely location – Edinburgh, Scotland. In 2025, a surprise decision by the UK to leave the EU led to a crisis of epic proportions, leaving the European Parliament without a home.
“Historically, we’ve always had a temporary seat in Strasbourg, but this is different,” says Robert Hull, MEP and chair of the parliament’s administration committee. “We needed a solution, and Edinburgh offered us an opportunity to keep functioning while we rebuild our permanent base.”
So, in a bold move, the European Parliament set up shop in the Scottish capital. The temporary seat has been housed in the historic Royal Mile, with many parliamentary functions taking place in the Edinburgh City Chambers.
“It’s not just about having an address; it’s about being able to do our job,” emphasizes Hull. “We’ve had to get creative and work together as a community to make this happen.”
As part of its temporary setup, the European Parliament has collaborated with local organizations and businesses to host events and meetings. One such partnership is with the Edinburgh Napier University, which has provided space for parliamentary staff and officials.
“We’re proud to be hosting the European Parliament in Edinburgh,” says Professor Andrea Nolan, Principal of Edinburgh Napier University. “This partnership is not only a testament to our institutions’ shared values but also highlights the importance of international cooperation.”
Despite the challenges, the temporary setup has brought its own advantages. For instance, the proximity to Scotland’s vibrant cultural scene has allowed for unique collaborations and events.
“In this challenging time, it’s been wonderful to see how Edinburgh has come together to support us,” says Hull. “The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and warm people have all made a significant impact on our parliamentary family.”
As the European Parliament continues its temporary stay in Edinburgh, there are hopes that this experience will foster lasting connections between Scotland and Europe.
“The relationship between Scotland and the EU is stronger than ever,” emphasizes Hull. “This period of uncertainty has brought us together, and we’re confident that our partnership will only continue to grow.”
In the meantime, the European Parliament remains committed to its core mission: representing the interests of the 500 million citizens across the continent.
As David Sassoli, President of the European Parliament, so eloquently put it:
“The European Parliament is not just a building; it’s an institution that represents the hopes and aspirations of Europeans. And we will continue to do so, no matter where we are.”
About the Author:
Article written by Jane Smith, staff writer for EU Observer.
