An IMGW News Report
Five years after the UK officially left the European Union, opinion on Brexit has shifted, with many now regretting the decision. Brexit was largely sold to the public through arguments of reclaiming sovereignty, often emphasising anti-migration and anti-Brussels rhetoric. The promise was to “take back control” over borders and laws, despite much of this being based on unfounded fears about immigration and EU interference.
The vote in 2016, which narrowly favoured leaving, set off a series of events that ultimately led to the UK’s departure on January 31, 2020. However, the aftermath has been far from the promised benefits. Economic forecasts show the UK’s exports and imports are now expected to be 15% lower than if it had stayed in the EU, with productivity also down by 4%. Small businesses have faced red tape, higher costs, and slower trade with EU countries.
One of the central arguments for Brexit was reducing immigration. Yet, post-Brexit, immigration has surged, with the UK granting far more visas for workers globally. The consequences of Brexit, combined with the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine war, have made the impact on the economy harder to evaluate.
While public opinion on Brexit has soured, the idea of rejoining the EU remains a distant prospect. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has promised to reset relations with the EU, focusing on practical matters such as artist mobility and security cooperation. However, with rising populism across Europe and other pressing issues, the UK no longer seems to be a priority for the EU.
