Two-thirds of European Union citizens support the United Kingdom rejoining the bloc, according to polling released by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). A decade after the Brexit referendum, 66% of respondents across 15 countries view UK membership as a positive or neutral idea. Meanwhile, a majority of British voters now report that Brexit has negatively impacted key national priorities, including the economy, trade, and the cost of living.
Why voters want closer ties
In the United Kingdom, the desire for a closer relationship with the EU has reached 75% among those surveyed in May. British respondents indicated that leaving the bloc has hindered their primary priorities, with 66% citing the cost of living and 65% pointing to the economy as areas of concern. Even among those who voted to leave in 2016, 58% stated that Brexit has worsened the issue of illegal immigration.
When asked to identify the benefits of leaving the EU, the most common response from British participants was “don’t know,” followed by “none of the above.” This sentiment suggests a widespread belief that the decision to leave has resulted in damage without providing a clear upside.
Did You Know? Despite the political tension surrounding immigration during the 2016 referendum, 63% of current UK respondents—including 57% of 2016 leave voters—would now accept freedom of movement in exchange for closer trading ties with the EU.
What could happen next
The polling suggests that the UK government faces a potential political opportunity to pursue a deeper reset with the bloc. Mark Leonard, director of the ECFR, noted that the “vast majority of citizens are open to a closer relationship,” creating a permissive consensus that goes beyond current government efforts. As British voters increasingly favor Europe over the United States as a security partner, future policy shifts could involve closer defensive integration, including potential participation in a European nuclear deterrent.
Expert Insight: The data indicates a fundamental shift in the British public’s priorities since 2016. While sovereignty was the primary driver a decade ago, the current focus on economic and security stability suggests that the UK may seek to align more closely with European structures to manage national challenges, potentially leading to a formal debate on re-integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do EU citizens feel about the UK rejoining?
According to the ECFR, 66% of respondents across 15 countries feel UK membership would be a good or at least not a bad idea. Support is highest in the Netherlands and Denmark at 75%.
Are European leaders open to the UK returning?
Yes, several leaders have expressed openness. French President Emmanuel Macron stated the door is “always open,” while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Finnish President Alexander Stubb have both indicated support for the UK’s potential membership.
Do British voters still prioritize national sovereignty over economic ties?
The polling identifies three distinct voter camps: 28% are “optimists” favoring alignment, 35% are “realists” seeking closer ties while maintaining US relations, and 27% remain “loners” prioritizing sovereignty. A majority overall favors closer economic and defensive ties with Europe.
Do you believe the UK should prioritize closer economic ties with Europe over its current post-Brexit status?
