Why Did a Significant Number of British Expatriates in Spain, France, and Portugal Vote to Leave the EU?
The Brexit referendum of 2016 had significant implications for British expatriates residing in countries like Spain, France, and Portugal. A substantial portion of these expats, particularly those living in the popular holiday regions, voted in favor of leaving the European Union (EU). This decision raised questions about their rationality and foreknowledge. This article explores the reasons behind this seemingly counterintuitive outcome and highlights the prevalent roles of xenophobia, racism, and a profound lack of understanding of the EU's benefits.
Impact on State Pensions
The UK had negotiated continuation of the pre-Brexit arrangements with the concerned governmental entities. However, the complexity and potential negative impacts on state pensions were not well-communicated. Many British expats, especially those residing in Spain's Costa Blanca, did not comprehensively contemplate the long-term consequences of their decision.
For example, in April 2016, the number of expatriates loudly advocating for Leave was alarming. This fervor often stemmed from a significant ignorance about their dependency on EU benefits and services. A village friend shared his story of how an elderly relative struggled to adapt to the new situation, questioning the meaningfulness of the Leave vote. Individuals voted based on a vague sense of invulnerability and a desire for 'sticking it to the man,' rather than careful deliberation.
Xenophobia, Racism, and Ignorance
Expatriates voted Leave due to a combination of xenophobia and racism, often inadvertently perpetuating a barrier to rational thought. As one expatriate reflects, 'They need us etc etc' was not a reasoned argument but a barrier to clear thinking. This sentiment reflects a profound ignorance about the EU's contributions and a lack of understanding of the consequences of their actions.
Many expats found the EU bureaucracy and stagnant economies frustrating, particularly in regions plagued by extreme youth unemployment. These negative experiences fostered a sentiment of 'sticking it to the man,' without thoroughly analyzing the potential long-term ramifications for their state pensions and other benefits.
Frustration and Lack of Understanding
British expatriates in Spain, France, and Portugal, particularly in popular holiday destinations, voted to leave the EU out of a combination of frustration and ignorance. Dominic Cummings' frustrations during a future fictional public inquiry succinctly encapsulate the misunderstood social and technological shifts brought about by Brexit.
Many expatriates voted Leave because of a 'little Englander' mentality. This mindset was characterized by a strong identification with British culture and a resistance to foreign influence, often leading to a lack of nuanced understanding of the EU. As the commenter reflects, 'Too much sun and booze frazzled their brains' humorously captures the idea that these individuals were perhaps so relaxed that they did not fully grasp the implications of their vote.
Hearing expatriates in Manila claim, 'We never knew this was going to happen,' illustrates the wide gap between public perception and the actual political landscape. Now, Norwegians are seen as a potential threat, showcasing the heightened paranoia and irrational fears surrounding the post-Brexit world.
Conclusion
The voting behavior of expatriates in Spain, France, and Portugal during the Brexit referendum cannot be fully understood without considering the roles of xenophobia, racism, and ignorance. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that many expatriates made their decision based on a lack of understanding and a superficial sense of invulnerability. This outcome highlights a need for more transparent and accurate communication about the implications of such major political decisions.
Despite the negative connotations associated with Brexit, many expatriates have adapted to their new lives and established strong, mutually beneficial relationships with local communities, as demonstrated by the author's experience in a Spanish village. Their language learning efforts and cultural exchanges serve as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these individuals.