‘10 Years of Brexit’ 65% of Britons Say Economy Negatively Affected; Rejoining EU is ‘Taboo’

A decade after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, a significant majority of Britons now view Brexit as detrimental to the nation's economy. A recent survey by the European Foreign Relations Council (ECFR) found that 66% of respondents believe Brexit has harmed the UK economy, with only 7% reporting positive effects.

The survey, which polled over 2,000 Britons, also revealed that 57% consider Brexit to have been the wrong decision. Negative impacts cited include increased consumer prices and living costs due to higher barriers for importing European goods, and diminished market access for British companies within the EU. Furthermore, 47% of respondents felt Brexit has negatively affected funding for public services like healthcare, contradicting earlier claims by Brexit proponents that leaving the EU would free up funds for domestic use.

Concerns also extend to national security and immigration. The survey indicated that 56% of Britons believe Brexit has negatively impacted efforts to control illegal immigration, likely due to reduced cooperation with neighboring European countries. Additionally, 57% believe Brexit has hindered educational and employment opportunities for young people, partly due to the loss of programs like Erasmus.

Despite the widespread dissatisfaction and regret surrounding Brexit, rejoining the EU is considered a political taboo. The deep divisions caused by the 2016 referendum mean that major political parties, including the opposition Labour Party, are hesitant to openly advocate for re-entry. While some politicians have expressed a desire for closer ties, they have also pledged not to pursue membership, citing the need to avoid reigniting the divisive national debate. The UK also faces practical hurdles, as it is unwilling to fully adopt EU regulations, including joining the customs union or the Schengen visa area, further complicating any potential path back.