Brexit was sold as the solution to all our problems. But now, the cracks are showing, and we’re longing for the benefits we tossed aside. Ready to see what we’ve lost?
1. Free Movement Across Europe
Remember when we could travel, work, and live anywhere in the EU without a hitch? Over 1.3 million Brits took full advantage of that freedom before Brexit slammed the door shut. Miss those carefree European adventures?
2. Simplified Travel
We used to breeze through European airports with just an ID card. Now, we’re back to the dreaded passport control lines and visa hassles. The EU’s Schengen Area was a dream—are you stuck in longer lines now?
3. Erasmus Program
The Erasmus program was a golden ticket for UK students to study in Europe. In 2017 alone, 16,561 UK students benefited from it. Think current students are feeling short-changed without this opportunity?
4. Trade Benefits
Tariff-free trade with EU member states was a massive boost for our economy. In 2019, 43% of UK exports went straight to the EU. Now, businesses face new tariffs and barriers—feeling the pinch?
5. Funding for Research
EU cash fueled countless UK research projects, especially in our universities. Between 2014 and 2020, the UK bagged €8.8 billion for research and innovation. Wondering if we’re lagging in scientific breakthroughs now?
6. Mutual Recognition of Qualifications
EU membership meant our professional qualifications were recognized across Europe, opening up job opportunities everywhere. Now, many UK professionals are stuck dealing with bureaucratic nonsense. Is your career taking a hit?
7. Consumer Protections
The EU’s robust consumer protection laws ensured we had high standards and safety. Missing those extra layers of protection now that we’re going it alone?
8. Health Insurance
Remember the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that covered medical costs while travelling? It’s now a thing of the past for many. How’s that for a vacation buzzkill?
9. Lower Mobile Roaming Charges
Gone are the days of affordable mobile roaming across Europe. The shock of your post-holiday phone bill is back. Missing those cheap calls and data?
10. Easy Customs Processes
Shipping and receiving goods from Europe used to be a breeze. Now, it’s all customs declarations and delays. Online shopping is a nightmare now, isn’t it?
11. EU Citizenship Rights
We had the perks of EU citizenship, including the right to live and work in any member state. That’s all gone. Missing your European identity?
12. Environmental Standards
EU regulations helped keep our environment clean and safe. Now, there’s a risk of weaker standards. Concerned about what that means for our future?
13. Scientific Collaboration
Being part of the EU meant easy collaboration with European scientists. Losing this has put many UK research projects at a disadvantage. Are we falling behind in innovation?
14. Financial Services Access
UK financial services had passporting rights to operate freely in the EU. Now, firms face barriers and relocations. How’s this affecting the economy with companies moving billions to EU cities?
15. Agricultural Subsidies
EU subsidies supported UK farmers, keeping the agricultural sector afloat. The loss of these funds—£3 billion annually—has hit hard. Can UK farming survive without this support?
16. Cultural Exchange Programs
EU cultural programs fostered arts and heritage projects across borders. With those connections severed, is our cultural scene losing its vibrancy?
17. Access to Talent
The UK benefited from a steady flow of skilled workers from the EU. Restrictions are now causing labour shortages in key industries like healthcare and construction. Is your industry feeling the strain?
18. Infrastructure Projects
EU funds helped develop UK infrastructure, from roads to public transport. Without this financial support, will our infrastructure progress stall?
19. Food Standards
EU regulations ensured high food safety and quality standards. With Brexit, there’s a fear these standards might slip. Worried about what’s on your plate?
20. Investment Opportunities
EU membership attracted significant investment into the UK. Post-Brexit, some investors are looking elsewhere, costing the UK economy billions. How’s this affecting your business prospects?
21. Stability and Unity
Being part of the EU offered a sense of stability and unity in a tumultuous world. Now, the UK is navigating rough waters alone. Do you miss the camaraderie?
Missing the EU Perks
The reality of Brexit is in stark contrast to the promised land. From seamless travel to robust economic benefits, the EU offered plenty that we’re now left longing for. Feeling that Brexit hangover?
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / vasara.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
The images used are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the actual people or places mentioned in the article.