In a striking shift a decade after the Brexit referendum, a recent survey indicates that two-thirds of EU citizens are in favour of the United Kingdom rejoining the European Union. This sentiment is echoed by a significant portion of British voters who believe Brexit has negatively impacted critical issues and are now advocating for closer ties with the EU, including acceptance of free movement—a notion once deemed controversial.
Widespread European Support for Rejoining
The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) conducted the polling across 15 countries, revealing that 66% of respondents view British membership as a positive prospect. Notably, support levels vary, with 75% in Denmark and the Netherlands advocating for re-entry, while Bulgaria and Italy show lower enthusiasm at 56% and 59%, respectively.
Even individuals who align with far-right or Eurosceptic parties demonstrate a willingness to mend relations. In Poland, 71% of Confederation voters support closer ties, alongside 58% of Germany’s AfD and France’s National Rally. French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated that the door remains “always open” for the UK, while Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his country’s readiness to support British membership.
Growing Discontent with Brexit in the UK
The survey, conducted in May, highlights a significant shift in the British public’s attitude towards Brexit. A majority of participants across various political affiliations, including those who previously supported Brexit, now view the decision as detrimental. Key areas impacted include rising living costs (66%), economic stability (65%), and opportunities for younger generations (57%). Alarmingly, even 58% of those who voted Leave acknowledge that Brexit has exacerbated illegal immigration.
When asked about the benefits of Brexit, many respondents simply stated “don’t know” or “none of the above,” indicating a prevalent feeling of disappointment regarding the anticipated advantages of leaving the EU. This discontent translates into a robust desire for reinvigorated relationships with Europe, with 75% of respondents advocating for closer ties.
A Shift in Immigration Perspectives
One of the most noteworthy findings from the survey is the willingness of British respondents to reconsider the contentious issue of free movement. A majority, including 63% of all participants and 57% of Leave voters, would now support freedom of movement in exchange for enhanced trading relations. Even among those prioritising immigration control, 44% are open to this arrangement, suggesting a fundamental shift in the landscape of public opinion.
Mark Leonard, the report’s author and director of the ECFR, observes that the polling results illustrate a significant evolution in the British public’s perspective. “A decade on, Brits realise their hopes for a better life outside the EU are unfulfilled,” he stated, emphasising how Brexit has hindered the UK’s ability to address pressing issues.
New Political Landscape
The survey categorises UK voters into three distinct groups: “optimists” (28%), who see European alignment as essential; “realists” (35%), who support closer ties while valuing US relations; and “loners” (27%), who favour national sovereignty. The data reveals that British voters now favour Europe over the US for security partnerships, with 58% preferring closer defensive relations with European nations compared to only 18% for the US.
Furthermore, a substantial majority of UK voters oppose increasing arms purchases from the US, with over 60% favouring a “buy European” policy. More than two-thirds (63%) also support the UK’s involvement in developing a European nuclear deterrent.
Why it Matters
The findings from this poll signal a pivotal moment in public sentiment regarding Brexit and the UK’s future relationship with the EU. With a growing consensus among both EU citizens and British voters for closer ties, this could reshape the political landscape and prompt a serious reconsideration of the UK’s position within Europe. As the government grapples with these changing attitudes, the prospect of re-engagement with the EU looms larger than ever, marking a potential turning point in the post-Brexit era.
