A decade after the 2016 referendum, public opinion in the United Kingdom shows a marked shift toward a closer relationship with the European Union, according to recent surveys conducted in May 2026. The polling reveals that a majority of British voters now view Brexit as having negatively impacted the country’s economy, international standing, and border control, leading many to reconsider the benefits of stronger ties with the EU.

The polling data indicate that roughly three-quarters of British voters support closer cooperation with the EU, including two-thirds who express comfort with freedom of movement—a policy once a significant point of contention during the Brexit campaign. Among younger voters, support for rejoining the EU is even higher, with around 70 percent favoring membership. This trend extends to former Leave supporters as well, with a majority endorsing improved trade and security arrangements with the union.

Economic concerns are central to changing attitudes. Most respondents believe Brexit has contributed to rising living costs, with two-thirds agreeing it has increased the cost of living. Experts have noted stagnation in investment and productivity since the UK left the bloc, and families reportedly face financial setbacks averaging thousands of pounds annually. These economic effects contrast with early expectations that Brexit would give the UK greater control and prosperity. Notably, only a small fraction of those polled support maintaining the current post-Brexit relationship with the EU, while the preference for either full membership or closer trade links through mechanisms like the single market is substantial, cutting across party lines.

Security issues have further shaped public opinion. In light of ongoing challenges such as the war in Ukraine and perceived shifts in U.S. foreign policy under former President Donald Trump, many Britons now regard Europe as a more reliable partner than the United States. Only 18 percent see the U.S. as a strong ally, while 63 percent prioritize relations with European nations. Similarly, a majority back increased defense cooperation with the EU, including sharing military resources and intelligence, along with support for a potential European army that includes British participation. There is also considerable favor—approaching two-thirds—for developing a European nuclear deterrent independent of U.S. control.

On border control, the campaign slogan “take back control” has not translated into perceived improvement. More than half of voters, including a majority of former Leave supporters, believe illegal immigration has worsened since Brexit, mirroring data on increased migrant crossings and net migration from outside the EU. The evolving views on migration have shifted attitudes toward freedom of movement, with a growing acceptance of EU citizens living, working, and studying in the UK without visas.

The polling also reflects a broader realignment in political identities. While earlier discussions on Brexit divided the electorate sharply between Leave and Remain camps, current opinions suggest this dichotomy has diminished. Many who supported Leave now favor closer EU relations, while Remain supporters continue advocating for membership or strong cooperation. Within party affiliations, European integration remains more divisive on the right, with a notable portion of Conservative and Reform voters still opposed to full membership but often supporting enhanced ties.

European reactions to the UK’s shifting stance vary. While a majority of EU citizens surveyed would welcome Britain’s return, political leaders remain cautious, with some emphasizing the need for the UK to meet standard conditions rather than receiving special treatment. Analysts note that the UK has decreased in priority compared to relationships with other global powers, such as China and India.

Overall, the public mood in the UK appears to have evolved significantly since 2016, driven by economic challenges, security concerns, and the realities of post-Brexit governance. Although political leaders remain hesitant to reopen the Brexit debate fully, the polling suggests that a large portion of the electorate is ready to reconsider the country’s place in Europe and reshape Britain’s future relationship with the EU.