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European Union

Brexit's Unintended Consequences: Freedom of Movement Under Threat

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The UK's decision to leave the EU, touted as a "Get Brexit Done" promise by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2019, has resulted in the loss of freedom of movement for UK citizens. This principle, which allowed Britons to live, work, study, and retire in 27 EU countries, has been effectively revoked. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting not just the privileged, but millions of ordinary people who relied on this right. As Brexit's full impact becomes clearer, it's essential to understand the implications of this shift.

Key Takeaways:

  • The UK's withdrawal from the EU has led to the loss of freedom of movement for UK citizens, affecting millions of people.
  • The previous 90-day limit for UK citizens in the Schengen zone is being replaced by automated systems to detect overstaying, directly resulting from Brexit.
  • Freedom of movement was used by millions of ordinary Britons, enriching the economy, culture, and lives of those who took advantage of it.
  • Key industries, such as music, education, and tourism, are facing significant barriers due to the new restrictions.
  • Musicians are required to obtain costly visas and navigate red tape, while Young people are losing access to the Erasmus+ program.
  • Freelancers are blocked from working freely across EU borders, and retirees and second-home owners are now classified as "third-country nationals."
  • Families in cross-border relationships face crippling new barriers, making it challenging to maintain relationships and family ties.
  • The restoration of freedom of movement, including access to the EU single market, could be a popular pivot for the UK Government, with 54% of 2016 Leave voters in favor (European Council on Foreign Relations, November 2024).

Statistics:

  • 54% of 2016 Leave voters would accept freedom of movement in exchange for preserving access to the EU single market (European Council on Foreign Relations, November 2024).
  • Millions of ordinary Britons used freedom of movement, enriching the UK economy, culture, and lives.
  • Over 27 EU countries, UK citizens previously had the right to live, work, study, and retire.
  • The UK's decision to leave the EU has resulted in significant barriers for various industries, affecting not just the privileged but also ordinary people.

Sources:

  • European Council on Foreign Relations, (November 2024)

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