Ten years after the 2016 referendum in which 52 percent of Britons voted to leave the European Union, the United Kingdom continues to grapple with political instability and economic slowdown. Since the vote, the country has seen six prime ministers, with a seventh expected soon. The latest, Keir Starmer, announced his resignation after two years in office, citing a sluggish economy and a divided electorate. Analysts and academics describe Brexit’s lingering influence as an “underground imprint” that still shapes British politics.

Economists say Brexit has damaged the UK economy, reducing exports to the EU by about 12 percent and imports by 16 percent. Businesses face new trade barriers, paperwork, and border checks despite a zero-tariff agreement. Political divisions have deepened within major parties, and voter disillusionment has grown, pushing many toward smaller parties such as the Green Party and Reform UK. Public opinion polls now show a majority favoring rejoining the EU.

Experts warn that unless British leaders confront Brexit’s legacy, the country will remain in a state of prolonged crisis, with its political and economic vitality steadily eroding.