W.W.W. - WORLD WIDE WHAT?
Join Chris and Maya as they gallivant thorough the globe uncovering troves of sights, stories and knowledge. Unearthing tales that cover both time and space, let’s begin our journey to better understand our home planet!
THE BREXIT BREAKDOWN
England has always been known for her Royal history, glorious literature and of course the infamous fish and chips! In the recent past however, the term “BREXIT” has become repeatedly associated with this country. It’s been blaring on the television, printed on the papers and discussed on the radio. Chris and Maya are curious to find out more.
WHAT IS BREXIT?
After the 2nd World War ended, some countries in Europe suggested that if they all teamed up, they would be able to prevent future wars. They wanted to work together and help each other with their trade, security, economy and even citizen rights. Thus, in 1993, the ‘European Union’ was established. By 2013 it had 28 member countries.
However in June 2016, the British people voted to leave this Union. The word ‘Brexit’ means the exit of Britain.
WHY DID THEY WANT TO LEAVE?
The European Union is like an exclusive club, where countries pay to be a member and in return they get opportunities to work together. One of these opportunities includes being part of a special market known as a “single market”.
Within this market, countries can trade with one another and people can move around freely across borders – it’s like living in one big country altogether instead of separate smaller ones.
The European Union even has its own parliament, laws and a currency called ‘the Euro’.
While many people believed that “unity is strength” and enjoyed being a member of this special club, most others didn’t agree. Some of their reasons were:
1. They didn’t like being bossed
around!
Although being in the EU was good for jobs and trade, the European Parliament laid out many rules and regulations. Due to these standards and laws, many people believed they were losing their own power and control.
2. They thought it was a rip-off!
The UK pays billions of pounds as membership fees to the EU every year and some people felt they weren’t getting much back in return for this.
3. We need boundaries!
Since the club members were able to move freely wherever they wished, people were moving away from poor countries to richer ones. Some disliked the fact that refugees and immigrants were able to move freely in this manner.
WHY SHOULD WE CARE?
No country has ever left the EU before, so it’s a significant moment in European history, but whatever happens may affect the rest of the world as well.
As a result of Britain’s broken friendships with the EU, buying our Cadbury chocolates or Legos from around the world, may not be as easy or cheap in the future.
The Commonwealth countries (which include Sri Lanka) were supported by Britain (their former colonizer) and through her they had a voice in the EU which then aided these countries in a time of crisis. BREXIT however would
break this bond and we may lose a powerful ally.
In the mean-time, Britain is on the lookout for new friends; so in the future, Asian countries like ours may get closer with the UK.
The fate of BREXIT and how it all plays out is uncertain. We could benefit, suffer or experience both through this deal. Therefore we can only hope for the best possible outcome and keep ourselves educated on how our fellow Earth dwellers are faring.
Join Chris and Maya next time at a new destination to immerse yourself in more chronicles and tales from around the planet.