The Reality of Brexit: A Journey Towards Compromise

On January 1, 2021, the UK officially concluded its transition period and became a third country to the EU, marking the end of an era. The trade and cooperation agreement established this new relationship, which, for some, has not been as decisive as initially envisioned.

Initial Expectations and Reality

The argument presented here explores the outcome of Brexit and whether the UK has truly received everything it deserved. The initial hope was for the Conservative Party to fall apart, and indeed, the political turmoil has not been a secret. However, the damage caused by the ongoing internal strife is more than expected. It is also arguable whether Boris Johnson, the former Prime Minister, will be remembered as the savior of the nation or as a figure who contributed to the self-destruction of the country.

The UK-EU relationship remains a complex issue. Prior to Brexit, the relationship was often described as dysfunctional, where both parties brought out the worst in each other. Nonetheless, it is hoped that over time, a more balanced and stable partnership akin to those of EFTA member states could materialize. Specifically, the loss of free movement is seen as a significant setback, but the hope remains that this could be addressed in future negotiations.

The Short and Long Term Outcomes

From a short-term perspective, those who voted for Brexit got exactly what they wanted—to leave the EU. However, in the long run, the reality has been far from perfect. The leave campaign promised an end to the constraints of EU regulations and a return to full sovereignty. Yet, the actual process has been marked by unpredictable outcomes and ongoing negotiations.

Government preparedness or lack thereof has been a significant factor. The "leg it" plan, while controversial, was the fast track out of the EU. Subsequent administrations, including that of Boris Johnson, have tried to navigate the new landscape with varying degrees of success. The political challenges have been profound, with the lack of comprehensive government planning being a major oversight.

The Role of Compromise

Ultimately, the outcome of Brexit is a story of compromise. Both voters and policymakers have had to accept that the ideal situation is rarely achievable. For remainers, the goal is simple—rejoining the EU. However, for leavers, it's a more complex task of balancing diverse interests and creating a new framework. The complexity of the situation necessitates a compromise in which everyone sacrifices something.

The principles of compromise are not new. The EU itself is built on principles of agreement and mutual concessions. The Yalta and Potsdam conferences, the Vienna Congresses, and the partition of India all involved compromise. These examples illustrate that in complex negotiations, nobody gets everything they desire, and this is the essence of compromise.

For the UK, the practical reality is that while the desire was always to leave the EU, the challenges in navigating the new relationship have made it clear that a one-size-fits-all solution is not feasible. Therefore, the journey ahead involves ongoing compromise, negotiation, and a recognition that the ideal outcomes of both sides are not entirely attainable. The future of UK-EU relations will continue to evolve as both parties navigate the complex landscape of post-Brexit realities.

Conclusion

The reality of Brexit is a living example of the challenges and compromises inherent in international relations. As the UK adjusts to its new status, the principles of compromise will be essential in shaping a stable and mutually beneficial relationship with the EU. The journey towards this goal is likely to be long and challenging, but it is through compromise that progress and understanding can be achieved.