EU citizens largely back Britain’s return to the European Union

A European Council poll covering 15 member states found that about two‑thirds of respondents would support the United Kingdom re‑joining the EU. Support varies, with the lowest backing in Bulgaria (56%) and the highest in the Netherlands and Denmark (75%). Overall, 66% of those surveyed view a possible British membership as good or very good, outpacing those favoring tighter ties (59%) or the status quo (46%).

In the United Kingdom, a May poll showed that voters across parties now consider Brexit to have harmed the country, citing higher living costs (66%), a weaker economy (65%), reduced opportunities for young people (57%), illegal immigration (56%) and trade (56%). European leaders such as French President Emmanuel Macron and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez have said the door remains open for the UK’s return. Meanwhile, EU diplomats say any re‑entry would require the UK to accept EU rules, and member states are cautious about reopening negotiations.