Britain’s European future: Why rebuilding ties with the EU is a political necessity

From the report

The political and economic consequences of Brexit are becoming increasingly difficult for Britain to ignore. A decade after the referendum that narrowly delivered a vote to leave the European Union, the country is still grappling with the economic costs, diplomatic complications and strategic disadvantages of its departure. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s determination to place relations with Europe at the center of Britain’s foreign policy represents a significant political shift – and potentially one of the most consequential decisions of his premiership.

Burnham’s approach may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who continue to regard Brexit as an expression of national sovereignty. Nevertheless, his willingness to reconsider Britain’s relationship with its European neighbors demonstrates political courage and an understanding of the changing international landscape. More importantly, it reflects a growing recognition that leaving the EU has not delivered the benefits promised by its supporters.

At first glance, reopening the European debate might appear politically risky. The Brexit referendum divided British society, damaged relationships across party lines and created years of tension between London and Brussels. For many politicians, revisiting such a divisive issue would seem unnecessary. Yet the circumstances confronting Britain today make avoiding the discussion increasingly difficult.