A recent survey has unveiled that a significant two-thirds of EU citizens are in favour of the United Kingdom rejoining the European Union. The findings, published by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), highlight a shift in sentiment both across Europe and within the UK regarding the long-term effects of Brexit. As the nation approaches the ten-year anniversary of the referendum, many British voters are now expressing regret over the decision to leave.
EU Citizens’ Opinions Shift
The polling, which surveyed respondents from 15 EU countries, indicates that 66% of participants believe the UK’s membership in the bloc would be beneficial or neutral. This overwhelming support is a stark contrast to the prevailing sentiment just a few years ago. The desire for closer ties is evident, with 59% advocating for improved relations and only 46% wishing for the status quo.
Support for UK re-entry varies by country, with the Netherlands and Denmark showing the highest backing at 75%. Conversely, Bulgaria recorded the lowest support at 56%. Interestingly, even voters from far-right and Eurosceptic parties appear to favour stronger connections, with 71% of Poland’s Confederation supporters and 58% from Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD) expressing similar views.
UK Voters Reassess Brexit
The sentiment in the UK mirrors this newfound openness to European integration. The same survey reveals that many British voters, regardless of political affiliation, now believe Brexit has negatively impacted crucial areas of their lives, including the economy and immigration. Notably, 66% of respondents cited increased living costs as a direct consequence of leaving the EU, while 65% said Brexit has harmed the economy.
Even among those who voted for Brexit, 58% acknowledge that it has exacerbated illegal immigration issues. When asked to identify the benefits of leaving the EU, many simply responded with “don’t know,” indicating a growing sense of disappointment and regret over the decision.
A Shift in Priorities
Perhaps the most striking revelation from the survey is that a substantial 63% of British respondents would now accept freedom of movement as part of a closer economic relationship with the EU. This includes 57% of those who voted to leave in 2016, suggesting that the desire for a more open relationship with Europe may eclipse previous concerns about immigration.
This shift in priorities is further illustrated by voters’ preferences for international partnerships. A clear majority now favour closer defensive ties with Europe over the United States, with only 18% viewing the US as a preferred ally. Additionally, over 60% of participants support a “buy European” policy over purchasing American arms.
Political Implications
Mark Leonard, the director of the ECFR and author of the report, emphasises that this polling reflects a significant change in public opinion. He argues that the UK government now has an opportunity to redefine its relationship with Europe, pointing out that the hopes for a prosperous life outside the EU have largely gone unfulfilled. Leonard suggests that the data indicates a “broad permissive consensus” for the UK to pursue a much closer relationship with the EU than currently envisioned by the government.
Why it Matters
These findings signal a profound shift in both public sentiment and political dynamics surrounding Brexit. As UK citizens increasingly recognise the drawbacks of separation, the call for a re-evaluation of the country’s relationship with the EU grows louder. This could lead to a pivotal moment in British politics, where the government may need to reconsider its stance on European integration in light of shifting public opinion. The ramifications could redefine the UK’s role on the global stage, opening doors to renewed collaboration and partnership with its European neighbours.
