Nine years after the Brexit referendum, public sentiment in the UK is shifting significantly, with many expressing regret over the decision to leave the European Union. Initially, in June 2016, the referendum resulted in a narrow victory for the Leave campaign, with 51.9% voting to exit the EU. However, recent surveys reveal a stark change in attitude; 56% of respondents now state that leaving the EU was the wrong decision, while only 31% continue to support it. This transformation illustrates a growing discontent with the consequences of Brexit, highlighting a notable shift in public opinion over the last near-decade.
The survey findings indicate a pervasive belief that Brexit has been more of a failure than a success. An overwhelming 61% of participants categorize it as a failure, and a mere 13% see it as a success. Among those disillusioned by the Brexit experience, a significant majority blame the Conservative Party and former Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Specifically, 88% attribute the failures to the party’s governance, while 84% hold Johnson accountable for the negative outcomes associated with Brexit. Nevertheless, a noteworthy portion of respondents—about one-third—also point to the European Union itself as being responsible for some shortcomings, including 60% of those who initially voted to Leave.
British political leadership has been turbulent in the wake of the Brexit decision, with a series of Conservative Prime Ministers navigating the complexities of post-Brexit governance. From David Cameron, who resigned following the referendum, to a succession of leaders including Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and the current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, the UK has witnessed instability during negotiations over Brexit. Despite the differing approaches of these leaders, the public appears united in a desire for closer relations with the EU. The survey indicates nearly two-thirds of UK citizens advocate for rekindling ties with the bloc, a sentiment that transcends party lines and appeals to many Leave voters as well.
Interestingly, while there is a strong appetite for improved relations with the EU, opinions on holding a new referendum to potentially rejoin are more divided. The current sentiment shows that most UK citizens are not in favor of an immediate referendum, with skepticism remaining around its practicality in the near future. Yet, over a longer timeframe of 25 years, a majority—52%—express support for the idea of a referendum to reconsider the UK’s membership in the EU, in contrast to 26% who oppose the notion.
This evolving sentiment presents a complex picture of Brexit’s legacy. While there is a clear indication that many British citizens are reconsidering the advantages of EU membership, the question of how to proceed remains contentious. The public’s prevailing desire for closer ties to Europe speaks to a collective recognition of potential benefits that EU association might offer, particularly in addressing economic and political challenges. However, the mixed feelings regarding a possible new referendum underline the uncertainty and division that Brexit has engendered throughout the UK.
Ultimately, the journey of Brexit is far from concluded. The survey findings not only reflect the current discontent but also signal a potential re-evaluation of the UK’s long-term relationship with the European Union. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the potential for future debates about membership and collaboration with the EU will certainly remain a pressing and polarizing topic in British politics. The call for a more integrated relationship with the EU, amidst regret and reflection on the past, may shape the trajectory of the UK’s political dialogue in the years to come.
