Brexit, the United Kingdom’s decision to leave the European Union, has been a hot topic since the 2016 referendum. As a casual observer, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this historic event has shaped British society and politics. The initial promises of Brexit have now met the reality of its implementation, leading to a shift in public opinion.
In this blog, I’ll explore the current thoughts and feelings of British people about Brexit, based on recent surveys and conversations with people across the country. These insights reveal some surprising and sometimes uncomfortable truths about how Brits view their country’s decision to leave the EU, years after the fact.
Economic Impact Worse Than Expected
Many Brits now believe Brexit has hurt the UK economy more than they thought it would. They see rising prices, supply chain issues, and businesses struggling. Some industries, like fishing and agriculture, haven’t seen the benefits they were promised. People are worried about the long-term economic effects of leaving the EU.
Loss of Freedom of Movement
Brits are realizing how much they’ve lost by being unable to live and work freely in EU countries. Young people especially feel that their opportunities are limited. Many families with EU connections are facing new challenges. The ease of traveling for holidays in Europe is also missed.
Northern Ireland Complications
The situation in Northern Ireland is more complex than many expected. The Northern Ireland Protocol has caused political tensions and trade difficulties. Many Brits didn’t realize how Brexit would affect this part of the UK. There’s growing concern about the peace process and the future of UK-Ireland relations.
Divided Families and Communities
Brexit has caused rifts in families and communities that haven’t healed. People who voted differently often still can’t discuss Brexit without arguing, and some friendships have ended over Brexit disagreements. Many Brits wish they could move past these divisions but find it difficult.
Regret Among Leave Voters
Some who voted to leave the EU now say they regret their decision. They feel the promises made during the Brexit campaign weren’t kept. Some didn’t expect the process to be so complicated and disruptive. There’s a growing sentiment of “Bregret” among certain Leave voters.
Concerns About UK’s Global Standing
Many Brits worry that the UK has lost influence on the world stage. They see the country struggling to make trade deals as good as those with the EU. Some feel embarrassed about how Brexit has been perceived internationally. There’s concern about the UK’s ability to tackle global issues alone.
Impact on the National Health Service (NHS)
The NHS hasn’t received the extra funding that was promised during the Brexit campaign. Instead, many Brits see the health service struggling more than ever. There are worries about staffing shortages as fewer EU workers come to the UK. Some feel misled about Brexit’s impact on healthcare.
Frustration with Ongoing Brexit Talks
Many Brits are tired of hearing about Brexit negotiations that seem to never end. They want the government to focus on other important issues. There’s frustration that Brexit is still causing problems years after the vote. Some feel the ongoing talks show how unprepared the UK was for leaving the EU.
Scottish Independence Concerns
Brexit has reignited the debate about Scottish independence. Many Scots feel they’ve been taken out of the EU against their will. There’s worry that Brexit might lead to the breakup of the United Kingdom. Some English people are concerned about losing Scotland because of Brexit.
Changing Views on Immigration
Some Brits who wanted less immigration now see its benefits more clearly. Labor shortages in certain industries have highlighted the need for foreign workers. There’s growing recognition of the contribution EU citizens made to the UK. Some feel the Brexit approach to immigration was too harsh.
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Loss of Erasmus Program
Young people are disappointed about losing access to the Erasmus student exchange program. Many feel this limits their educational and cultural opportunities. The replacement Turing scheme is seen as less comprehensive. There’s a sadness about losing connections with European universities.
Complexity of Trade Rules
The new trade rules with the EU are more complicated than many expected. Small businesses, especially, are struggling with extra paperwork and costs. Some companies have stopped exporting to the EU because it’s too complicated. Many Brits didn’t realize how complex international trade agreements are.
Concerns About Food Standards
There are worries that the UK might lower its food standards to make new trade deals. People are concerned about importing foods that they consider to be of lower quality. Some miss the guarantees that came with EU food regulations. There’s debate about whether Brexit will lead to better or worse food choices.
Feeling of Isolation
Some Brits feel more isolated from their European neighbors since Brexit. They worry about becoming less connected to European culture and ideas. There’s a sense of being left out of European decisions that still affect the UK. Some miss feeling part of a larger European community.
Impact on Science and Research
Scientists are concerned about losing EU funding and collaborations. Some research projects have become more difficult without EU partnerships. There are worries about the UK becoming less attractive for top international researchers. Many in the science community feel Brexit has been harmful to their work.
Generational Divide
Young people, who largely voted to remain, feel their future has been decided by older generations. There’s frustration that those who will live the longest with Brexit have the least say. Some young Brits feel disconnected from the decision-making process. This has created a noticeable generational divide in views about the country’s future.
Pride and Sovereignty
Some Brits still feel proud of their decision to leave the EU. They believe Brexit has restored UK sovereignty and independence. Making decisions without EU input is satisfying, and some feel a sense of national pride in charting their course.
Desire to Move On
Many Brits, regardless of how they voted, want to move past Brexit debates. There’s a desire to focus on solving current problems rather than arguing about the past. Some hope the UK can find a way to work positively with the EU in the future. There’s a growing feeling that it’s time to accept Brexit and make the best of the situation.
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