Brexit has been a long and contentious journey for the British people, with it now widely assumed that the UK will officially leave the European Union at the end of this month. In what is sure to be a historic moment, while Brexit Day won’t be celebrated on a national level, it’s likely that the various little moments on the day itself and its commemoration will be remembered by people in every corner of the UK for years to come.
Leading Up To Brexit Day
The lead up to Brexit Day has been both tumultuous and historic. Over the years, nearly three-quarters of the country have expressed their support for the UK’s decision to leave the EU. This sentiment was only intensified by the calling of the 2019 snap general election, in which the Conservative party won a landslide majority victory, allowing for their Brexit plans to be pushed through, culminating in the UK’s departure from the European Union.
The Media Coverage
As we approach Brexit Day, it can be expected that the media coverage of the momentous event will be significant. As a result of the years of build-up and media coverage, many people across the UK will feel a sense of closure when the act of leaving takes place, as they have been living with the issue for the best part of four years. This sentiment may also be shared by those in Europe that have been closely following the process, since the EU referendum was called in 2016.
The Intellectual Debate
Brexit Day will also be remembered for the debates that have taken place since the referendum. Immediately following the referendum, Britain was awash with discussions of the UK’s membership of the EU and the possible implications of leaving. This debate continued well into 2019, as the various competing factions sought to put forward their positions as to why the UK should or shouldn’t leave. As such, many people will remember Brexit Day for the intellectual debates related to it.
The Economic Impact
The economic impact of Brexit Day will be the most heavily talked about and remembered aspect of the process. Economists and members of the business community were vocal in their opposition to a Brexit outcome, with many arguing that the long-term economic uncertainty would have a detrimental effect on Britain’s economic performance. Many will remember Brexit Day as a time of economic uncertainty, when investment and growth prospects were unclear.
Impact On Society
Then there is the impact Brexit Day has had on society. Not only did the referendum and subsequent negotiations affect national politics, but social issues were also affected by the debate surrounding the UK’s membership of the EU. These included debates about immigration controls, freedom of movement, and the impact of a “no deal” Brexit on certain industries and areas of the UK.
The Long-Term Legacy
Only time can tell how Brexit Day will be remembered in the long-term. It’s likely that it will be remembered as a defining moment in British history, as well as a moment of national pride for many people. For those who supported Brexit, it will be remembered as the day that Britain finally achieved independence from the EU. For those who opposed it, it will likely be remembered as a day of lament and sadness, with many feeling as though Britain had made a mistake in leaving the EU.
Brexit Day is sure to be remembered in the UK for years to come. With the various political, economic and social implications still to be seen, it is likely that the way it is remembered may depend on the long-term outcome of Britain’s relationship with the European Union. Only time will tell how Brexit Day will be remembered and talked about.
