The UK Just Left the European Union Due to Brexit: How Does This Affect You Personally?

The recent departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union, commonly known as Brexit, has sent ripples through the lives of individuals across the continent. For many British citizens and expatriates living abroad, this political decision has brought about both immediate and long-term changes. This article explores how Brexit has affected personal lives, focusing on the experiences of those who have lived and worked abroad.

Loss of Freedom of Movement

For a UK citizen residing in France, the ramifications of Brexit extend beyond the political arena. The ability to participate in local French elections has been permanently curtailed, a poignant reminder of the loss of certain rights. This change is a result of the revocation of the UK's rights to free movement within the EU, a right that has been a cornerstone of the European Union for decades. The European Union now views the UK as a third-world country, placing it on the same level as the USA, which has made life more cumbersome, complicated, and expensive for many British expatriates.

Impact on Personal Purchases and Daily Life

The decision to leave the EU has resulted in changes that affect every day life. One significant change is the impact on personal purchases. The loss of free movement has made it more cumbersome to procure goods from the UK. New customs charges, increased VAT, and long delivery delays have forced individuals to source goods from other countries like Holland and Germany. This shift in purchasing habits has highlighted the potential financial and logistical burdens that come with the loss of the benefits previously enjoyed within the EU.

Strained Social Relationships

Brexit has also had a profound impact on social relationships. The polarizing sentiment around Brexit has led to strained friendships and professional collaborations. The term 'remoaners' has become a derogatory term for those opposing Brexit, and the association of this sentiment with selfishness has led to a detachment from previous social circles. The sentiment is that these individuals are all "blindingly self-centered" and have been "thankfully out of my life forever". This social fallout underscores the emotional toll that political decisions can have on personal lives.

Expatriate and Work Life Impact

For those living and working abroad, especially in the Netherlands, the impact of Brexit is particularly complex. The long-term residency status of British citizens in the Netherlands, much like other EU countries, has been contingent on EU membership. The introduction of a rule that British citizens would lose their right to permanent residency if they spend 12 months outside the EU was a clear sign that the UK saw this as a tit-for-tat retaliation. This decision has not only complicated the lives of expatriates but also presents a practical challenge in pursuing Dutch citizenship.

Financial Implications

The financial implications of Brexit are manifold. For individuals like myself, the ability to transfer funds has been made more cumbersome, with the added layer of cost and complexity. Additionally, the economic uncertainty brought about by Brexit has led to a more lenient financial outlook. The level of inflation has risen, which has significantly affected the purchasing power of individuals. Furthermore, the raw hatred faced by expatriates has lessened the emotional attachment to the UK, leading to a sense of detachment and a more neutral stance towards the country.

In conclusion, Brexit has had a multifaceted impact on personal lives, from lost rights and friendships to logistical and financial challenges. As the UK continues to navigate the complexities of life post-Brexit, it is vital to understand these personal impacts and their broader social and economic implications.