Majority of Brits Now Regret Brexit, Survey Reveals

A Decade After Brexit: Shifting Sentiments

By June 23, 2026, a survey conducted by YouGov indicates that a majority of Britons view Brexit as a mistake, marking a shift in public opinion a decade after the referendum that led the United Kingdom out of the European Union. A pro-EU campaigner expressed this sentiment on France 24, highlighting the economic impact and loss of freedoms such as movement and family unity.

Demonstrations marked the 10th anniversary of the Brexit referendum, exemplified by the National Rejoin March on June 20, 2026, where participants advocated for the UK to rejoin the EU. Protestors in London voiced their dissatisfaction, particularly with the political chaos that followed Brexit, evidenced by the UK having seven prime ministers within a decade.

Economic and Political Turbulence

The Office for Budgetary Responsibility noted a reduction in productivity, imports, and exports due to Brexit, which compounded the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Mayor Sadiq Khan lamented that the consequences surpassed pre-referendum fears.

Despite some individuals experiencing “Bregret,” two-thirds of Brexit voters maintain their stance, as reflected by the YouGov poll showing 30% still support the decision. Critics attribute the unfavorable outcomes to ineffective management by subsequent governments rather than the departure from the EU itself.

Enduring Divide and Calls for Change

Nigel Farage, an influential figure in the Brexit movement, defended the choice to leave the EU, asserting that the establishment resisted the initial decision and failed to honor it effectively. Farage remains steadfast in supporting Brexit despite its complex aftermath.

The “Vote Leave” campaign promised regained control over borders and migration, yet the post-Brexit landscape revealed labor shortages. Boris Johnson, a Brexit supporter, relaxed immigration rules, resulting in increased non-EU migration.

Considering Rejoin

Simon Boyd, a Brexit campaign ally, expressed disappointment but urged embracing Brexit’s opportunities. He likened rejoining the EU to returning to the Titanic, suggesting it would compromise the UK’s autonomy.

Polling indicates a significant change in public opinion on another EU referendum. Generational shifts, with older pro-Brexit voters passing away and younger pro-EU individuals gaining voting rights, have altered the landscape. Three-fifths of Generation Z Brits support a new referendum, with over half of YouGov respondents advocating for some form of EU reintegration.

The anti-EU Reform UK party, led by Farage, continues to see electoral success, signaling persistent Brexit divisions. Politicians remain hesitant about proposing another referendum, including Andy Burnham, a potential prime minister who hopes for EU reentry but opposes reigniting past debates.