Britain marks a decade since it chose Brexit and left the EU

Key Points:

• Ten years after the 2016 referendum where 52% voted for Brexit, the UK has experienced significant economic and political shifts, with Brexit leading to a gradual economic decline estimated between 4% and 8% smaller than if the UK had remained in the EU.
• Trade with the EU, the UK's largest trading partner, faces non-tariff barriers such as customs paperwork and visa restrictions, while promised trade deals, including one with the US, have largely failed to materialize.
• Immigration control was a central promise of Brexit, resulting in reduced net migration from the EU but increased migration from non-EU countries; however, illegal crossings via small boats have caused public outrage and political tension.
• Public opinion has shifted, with polls showing a majority of Britons favoring rejoining the EU and nearly half supporting a new referendum, reflecting growing regret over Brexit's outcomes.
• The current Labour government has ruled out reversing Brexit but seeks to reset relations with the EU to ease trade difficulties, while political figures emphasize respecting the 2016 referendum decision despite calls for closer ties.