By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Sir Keir Starmer is set to declare Britain’s “Brexit years” over at the Munich Security Conference, advocating for enhanced European security cooperation and a reduced reliance on the United States. He will highlight Europe’s significant economic and military capabilities, urging the continent to act as a unified “sleeping giant.” Starmer will also warn against isolationism, deeming it “surrender” in a dangerous global climate, and will stress the interconnectedness of UK and European security.
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It seems there’s a strong sentiment suggesting that Britain’s “Brexit years” are finally over, and the path forward lies in a renewed engagement with Europe, rather than aligning with figures like Donald Trump. This perspective argues that the promised benefits of leaving the European Union have simply not materialized, leaving many questioning the tangible improvements to their lives after six years. The lack of concrete examples of positive outcomes from Brexit proponents is often highlighted as a significant point of contention, indicating a growing sense of disillusionment.
The comparison between Brexit and Trump is frequently drawn, suggesting they share common origins, possibly linked to external influence and propaganda. The idea that Brexit might have been a strategically orchestrated operation to weaken the UK is also put forward, with questions raised about the financial backing of certain political figures involved. While it’s acknowledged that the EU itself isn’t perfect, the historical context of European unity is presented as a crucial factor, emphasizing the continent’s long journey from conflict to cooperation. This unity is seen as the best outcome for Europe, and any opposition is often viewed as a result of fear or an inability to grasp the benefits of collective action.
The frustration with the economic fallout of Brexit is palpable, with a particular focus on the need for fairer distribution of benefits from trade deals. Concerns are voiced about the rise of wealth inequality, which is seen as a breeding ground for social instability, authoritarianism, and polarized politics. This failure of democracies to deliver tangible economic gains to the working class is identified as a key vulnerability that allows divisive figures to exploit public sentiment. The notion that misinformation and a lack of adequate public education have played a role in this situation is also present.
There’s a strong belief that Britain’s geographical position necessitates a relationship with Europe, making the choice not truly optional. The argument is made that a significant portion of the British population did not vote for Brexit, and those who did may have been swayed by external propaganda. The current sentiment suggests a pivot away from the “global Britain” narrative and a return to focusing on practical, geographical realities. While Europe might welcome renewed cooperation, the past decade is unlikely to be forgotten.
The analogy of a difficult breakup is used to describe the current relationship with Europe, suggesting a potential desire for reconciliation after the “new relationship” hasn’t worked out as expected. The hope is that Britain is finally moving past the hangover of Brexit and beginning to acknowledge the reality of the situation. This realization, however painful, is seen as a necessary step towards healing and moving forward.
The idea of finding common ground and looking towards shared goals is encouraged, with the suggestion that both Europe and Britain might need to temper their respective expectations for the sake of future collaboration. The possibility of reviving trade within the Commonwealth is also floated as an alternative or complementary approach, highlighting shared languages and legal systems as potential benefits without the complexities of integration.
There’s a sense of relief and acknowledgment that the “Brexit years” are coming to an end, with some expressing the view that it’s about time. The criticism of the “right-wing” narrative surrounding Brexit and its perceived negative impacts on the British economy is evident. The notion that Brexit was a successful outcome is met with skepticism, and the current political landscape is seen as potentially leading to further challenges if the electorate continues to support those who advocated for leaving the EU.
The impact of figures like Donald Trump on international relations is acknowledged, suggesting his influence extends to political dynamics in other countries. The hope is that other nations, like America, will also come to a similar conclusion regarding the need for strong international partnerships over isolationist policies. The consensus appears to be that an EU that includes the UK is preferable to the alternative, and that external influences, particularly from Russia, have played a significant role in past political decisions.
The idea of a return to the EU is seen as inevitable by some, and they anticipate the arguments that will be made by those who oppose rejoining. The prospect of consecutive Labour governments is seen as a potential catalyst for such a shift, with the eventual justifications for Brexit’s “success” being a source of future observation. The current political climate is described as one where decisive action is needed, and indecisiveness is seen as a negative trait.
The economic consequences of Brexit are pointed to, with specific examples like queuing at airports being used to illustrate the perceived negative outcomes. The long-term economic performance and the decision to align more closely with the US at a time when figures like Trump were rising are seen as profoundly misguided. The continued public presence of figures associated with the Brexit movement without significant backlash is viewed with bewilderment.
The current surge in immigration, which was supposed to be curbed by Brexit, is highlighted as a contradiction to the stated aims of leaving the EU. The eventual return to the EU’s single market is viewed as the only logical next step, especially if governments continue to lean towards closer European ties. The debate around Brexit and its supposed benefits is expected to continue, with those who supported it facing the challenge of defending its outcomes in the future.