By Michael Yang
Since its founding, the European Union has had Britain as one of its primary members. Recently, however, the British people have voted to have Britain leave the EU, marking a historic decision for both Britain and the EU. While many argue that this decision, otherwise known as Brexit, will have positive implications for Britain, all around, the downsides to leaving the protection of the European Union far outweigh the positives.
Brexit will not only cause short-term problems for the global economy, but also result in negative long term consequences for the entire world, but in particular Britain. Leaving the European Union would cut off and stall Britain’s access to European markets, and hinder free trade between Britain and the EU. It will also serve to further reduce stability in Europe. Already, there are talks in countries such as France and Italy to leave the European Union, further diminishing its power and fracturing Europe. Thus, Brexit will result in not only economic, but also political problems in Europe, and by extension the world.
Though proponents of Brexit cite the large number of migrants entering Britain as proof that Britain needs independence from the EU, the drawbacks of leaving far outweigh the benefits. Though the decision was made by the British people, it may have unintended consequences for people around the world.