Bin wieder da: 09/04/21

This caricature offers an insight into German media perceptions of just one of the consequences of Brexit. The caption reads 'I'm back', while the image shows the 'Northern Ireland conflict' emerging from a pothole uncovered by Brexit.

The violent riots in Northern Ireland began at the end of March, predominantly in areas where loyalist paramilitaries have a foothold. It is believed they have largely been triggered by the Irish Sea border which is part of the UK's Brexit deal, meaning that Northern Ireland will remain in the single market, and products imported from Great Britain will be subject to EU controls. For many Unionists, this poses a threat to Northern Ireland's status as part of the UK.

This is just one of the challenges of Brexit which has been recognised in Germany. An interesting analysis of the situation in the UK can be found in the German newspaper Die Zeit from 15th April 2021. In the article 'Bier und Barrikaden' (Beer and barricades), the writer describes the UK as Europe's 'exotic neighbour', and presents a mixed perspective on the UK's prospects in the wake of Brexit. Although attention is drawn to the fact that British exports to the EU have reduced, and that the country is currently experiencing some of the economic disadvantages of leaving the EU, the writer states that 'it is by no means impossible that Britain could become more competitive and profit economically through removing itself from European regulations.' Attention is also drawn to the success of the COVID-19 vaccine campaign in Britain compared to the 'slow and incoherent' campaign on the continent, which, it is argued, has damaged the EU's image in the UK.

However, the writer's most compelling argument concerns the uncertain future of the United Kingdom in the context of discontent and conflict in Northern Ireland and Scotland. 'Nicht nur Schottland, sondern auch Nordirland könnte dem Vereinigten Königreich verloren gehen' - 'the United Kingdom could lose not only Scotland, but also Northern Ireland'. Brexit is identified as a crucial factor in this disintegration, exacerbated by the pandemic which has emphasised what many feel to be a non-representative, England-centred approach on the part of Boris Johnson.

Discourse surrounding Brexit is therefore seemingly just as complex and inconclusive as it is in the British media. Nevertheless, it is perhaps worth noting here that during my year in Germany I have yet to encounter someone who has expressed approval of Brexit or would wish the same for Germany.

Sources: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-56664378

Die Zeit, No. 16, 15.04.21