How can the SNP support membership of the EU alongside independence?

All 27 members of the European Union and the UK are – by definition – independent countries. Nine of them have smaller populations than Scotland.

The SNP believe in independence for Scotland, but also in independent countries working together for good of all to protect workers, tackle climate change, preserve peace and guarantee our freedom of movement – which happens through membership of the EU.

There is nothing contradictory about independent nations recognising their interdependence and choosing to pool some sovereignty for mutual advantage. Scotland has been pooling sovereignty, in one form or another, for many years – that is true now, and it would be true should Scotland become an independent nation.