Britain's Brexit Breakup: 10 Years On, Has the EU Moved On?

The Lead

It's been a decade since the Brexit referendum, and the UK is still coming to terms with its new reality. The European Union, on the other hand, seems to have moved on, with many Europeans no longer fixated on the UK.

The Event Details

The Brexit referendum, which took place in 2016, marked a significant turning point in the UK's relationship with the EU. The UK's decision to leave the EU has had far-reaching consequences, including a significant decline in EU nationals moving to the UK and a decrease in trade between the two.

The Data Analysis

The numbers speak for themselves: EU nationals make up just 5% of those who obtain a UK visa after battling through the post-Brexit immigration system. In 2023-24, the number of EU students enrolling in UK courses was down 58% compared to the last year under free movement.

The Impact Analysis

The UK's obsession with Brexit has had an impact on its relationships with other European countries. Many young, creative Europeans are now more likely to move to Berlin or Barcelona than to London. The UK's 'street cred' has taken a hit, with the city no longer being seen as the go-to destination for Europeans.

The Prediction

While the EU and UK have largely made their relationship work, with trade remaining important to both sides, it's unclear what the future holds. The UK may need to do another decade of growing up before it can rekindle its relationship with the EU. As one friend joked, 'These old lovers might be able to strike it up again.'