Five years after Britain’s departure from the European Union, the country continues to grapple with economic, social, and cultural aftershocks.
On Jan. 31, 2020, the U.K. officially left the bloc after nearly five decades of membership, ending free trade and movement with 27 European nations. Supporters saw Brexit as a step toward sovereignty, while opponents feared isolation.
The 2016 referendum, which saw a 52 percent vote to leave, was fueled by concerns over immigration, deindustrialization, and economic policy. However, the U.K. and EU struggled to finalize trade terms, resulting in a bare-bones deal that added bureaucratic hurdles for businesses.
Public opinion has since shifted, with polls suggesting regret over Brexit. But rejoining remains unlikely, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer advocating only for improved EU relations, not full reintegration.
The EU, originally formed after World War II to foster economic cooperation and prevent conflict, now faces its own challenges, including rising populism. While Britain’s departure is no longer a priority for the EU, Brexit’s impact continues to shape the U.K.’s future.