Reflections: the UK after Brexit

Abstract

The articles in this issue have explored the effects Brexit has had on the UK’s international role, identity, and status. In doing so they touch on the wider question of how significant a change Brexit has been for the UK. Most answers to that question point to effects on the constitution, unity, identity, political economy of the UK, and the country’s place in Europe and the wider world. This concluding article highlights processes of both change and continuity. It explores how Brexit has triggered a critical juncture but this has not yet significantly changed the ideas (especially those held by the British elite) about the UK’s role, identity, and status. Such a change may happen in time because the Brexit critical juncture is still happening, with the wider political fallout, especially to the UK’s territorial integrity, still unfolding. Although even here, the potential for continuity should not be underestimated.