Ten years after the referendum, a major ECFR poll reveals widespread regret among voters and shifting priorities toward renewed ties with the EU.
According to a survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), about two-thirds of British voters, regardless of political views, believe that the decision to leave the European Union in 2016 had a negative impact on the country.
The ECFR survey, conducted from May 7 to 14 among more than 2,000 respondents, showed that two-thirds link Brexit to rising living costs and a negative impact on the economy.
In ten years, Britons will realize that their hopes for a better life outside the EU have not come true, and Brexit undermines the United Kingdom’s ability to address the voters’ most important problems.
– Mark Leonard
Key Findings of the Survey
56% of respondents believe that leaving the EU has negatively affected the fight against illegal migration, trade, and bureaucracy; 57% believe it has reduced opportunities for young people; 57% also believe that leaving the EU was “the wrong move” for the country.
Now around 75% of respondents want closer ties with the EU.
The survey also showed that Britons view Europe as a priority security partner ahead of the United States, with only 18% seeing the United States as an ally.
ECFR added that a separate study among 15 EU countries indicates two-thirds support for Britain’s return to the EU in the future.
In summary, the survey data point to a reconsideration of public opinion: a majority of citizens advocate restoring stronger ties with the EU and a more balanced approach to immigration and economic policy.