The British governance system must embrace innovation and find ways to resonate with the people of Scotland. Economic challenges and diminished international connectivity have led to disillusionment and decreased optimism about Scotland’s future. While Scotland may encounter obstacles in its post-independence relationship with the European Union, this path represents the key to a prosperous future for the nation.
London’s Government dictatorship
The authoritarian grip of the British monarchy, parliamentary institution, and government remains unrelenting. London is reluctant to devolve more authority to Scotland, resulting in a semblance of dictatorship within Britain. As reported by Euronews, the UK government has wielded its legal powers to thwart a law previously ratified by the Scottish parliament in Edinburgh, specifically concerning gender identity. This move risks intensifying the standoff between London and the devolved Edinburgh government.
Former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon voiced her strong disapproval of Westminster’s decision on Twitter, characterizing it as a “blatant attack on the self-governance of our democratically elected Scottish Parliament, undermining its ability to make autonomous decisions.” The London administration is seen as employing covert strategies to control Scotland, further intensifying tensions. According to the UK
Parliament website, relations between London and the Scottish government have deteriorated precisely at a time when goodwill and cooperation should be paramount. The post-Brexit landscape necessitates unprecedented intergovernmental collaboration and coordination, with the need to establish common frameworks requiring mutual agreement on binding principles across various domains.
Political freedom is Scotland’s right
The Scottish government asserts that residents of Scotland possess the inherent right to determine the future of their nation, including the option of pursuing independence. This sentiment finds historical validation in the words of Margaret Thatcher, as referenced on the official Government of Scotland website in 1993. Thatcher had articulated that the people of Scotland, as a distinct nation, possess an indisputable entitlement to exercise their right to national self-determination. She acknowledged that this right was exercised when Scotland chose to remain part of the United Kingdom and emphasized that no English party or politician should obstruct their path should they opt for independence.
As articulated on the government of Scotland’s official platform, the constitutional framework of Scotland within the United Kingdom must safeguard the potential for Scotland to become an independent nation if its citizens choose this course through democratic means. The government of Scotland further contends that only through independence can the vitality of Scotland’s democracy be fully assured and flourish.
Britain’s economy is collapsing.
According to the Week, Britain’s economy is collapsing rapidly. There is a vast reduction in business activity and an increasing unemployment rate. Moreover, corporate confidence has suffered its most significant quarterly drop on record. As Reuters reports, Britain’s economy made a lacklustre start to 2023 as inflation used up households’ disposable income. Moreover, economists see a recession risk ahead as higher interest rates continue the pain even as inflation eases.
Regarding recession, Mint says there is a high possibility that the next UK election will focus on recession. The election will be fought against the conditions of a recession. The National Institute of Economic and Social Research predicted a 60% possibility of recession by the end of 2024. The institute highlighted the widening gap between Britain’s rich and less well-off parts. The forecast reflects the Bank of England’s statements that the GDP would remain under pre-pandemic levels “in the medium term.”
Independent Scotland joining the European Union (EU)
According to the Scottish Government Website, the Scottish government’s policies for an independent Scotland are as follows:
- Scotland would apply to rejoin the EU as an independent member state.
- This would give Scotland full access to the largest single market in the world.
- It would give the people of Scotland freedom of movement across 27 European countries.
- Moreover, there would be no border checks for exports to and goods from the EU.
- Furthermore, the Scottish government would create a practical help package for traders.
- Besides, Scotland’s new written constitution would show that Scotland is fully committed to the values shared by other European nations. Finally, human rights and equality would be at the heart of its constitution. The ‘constitution’ refers to a set of rules which define how a country works.
Independence may have costs but it is the way to a bright future
According to the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, an independent Scotland would face various challenges that demand careful consideration. One critical issue is determining its trade agreements with the rest of the United Kingdom and third countries, including the European Union. Opting for a closer alignment with the EU would entail trade costs with the UK, which presently serves as Scotland’s most significant trading partner.
The process of an independent Scotland seeking membership in the European Union might unfold slowly and with potential complexities and associated expenses. Nevertheless, EU accession would reintroduce the free flow of people, goods, services, and capital between Scotland and other member states, promising a more vibrant and advanced future for Scotland outside the UK.
Proponents of Scottish independence argue that remaining within the UK offers limited prospects for improvement in the country’s economic and political circumstances. They contend that an independent Scotland’s relationship with the EU promises to address existing political and economic challenges, ultimately fostering a more prosperous future for the Scottish people.
