The Blue UK Passport: A Symbol of Brexit and National Identity

Introduction:

The color change of the UK passport from burgundy to blue during Brexit sparked significant debate, reflecting broader themes of national identity, sovereignty, and public sentiment.

Cultural Identity

The UK passport has traditionally been burgundy, marking it as part of the EU. When the UK reverted to a blue passport post-Brexit, it represented a move to claim a distinct national identity. Many viewed the blue color as a symbol of British heritage, reminiscent of the era before EU membership. This change was more than just a color switch; it symbolized a preference for traditional British values and a push away from the EU's unity and freedom of movement.

Sovereignty

Changing the passport color was a tangible manifestation of the UK's departure from the EU, symbolizing a broader assertion of national sovereignty. For many British citizens, this change represented a shift in political and cultural dynamics resulting from Brexit. It was a tangible reminder of the impact of Brexit on daily life, a clear indication of the UK's newfound independence from EU standards and regulations.

Public Sentiment

The debate around the passport color tapped into public sentiment regarding Brexit. For some, it was a matter of pride and nostalgia, a reminder of a pre-EU era. However, for others, it highlighted divisions regarding the EU and national identity. The color change became a microcosm of larger debates about Brexit itself, representing the conflicting views and emotions surrounding the decision. The media played a significant role in amplifying these feelings, framing the passport color change as a symbol of the broader impact of Brexit on ordinary lives.

Political Messaging

Politicians and advocates used the passport color debate to reinforce their positions on Brexit. The blue passport became a rallying point for those who supported leaving the EU, emphasizing a return to traditional values and independence. This change in the passport represented a key aspect of the political narrative, serving as a tangible symbol of the broader Brexit movement.

A Symbol of Misplaced Pride

For some, the blue passport represents a sense of national pride that is misplaced. The EU passport is a symbol of unity and the right to travel freely across 27 nations, along with job security, healthcare, and pension rights. The blue version, however, takes away these privileges, as it requires queueing and acquiring visas to visit other countries. This perspective views the blue passport as the epitome of nationalists who prioritize traditional values over practical needs.

Brexit: The Descent into Reality

During the Brexit referendum campaign, advocates promised numerous benefits that have not materialized. The government's assertion that Brexit has been delivered stands in stark contrast to the reality of the situation. The UK is not actually free of any EU laws, and the concept of sovereignty is still open to question due to the terms of the withdrawal agreement. Recent events, such as watching a Question Time segment, further indicate a growing dissatisfaction with the reality of Brexit.

As the tide turns, it is clear that the idea of Brexit as a positive outcome is being questioned by many. The blue passport becomes a symbol of this sentiment, representing a decision made by the British people that many now view as the "dumbest decision ever." This shift in public opinion is crucial in understanding the broader implications of Brexit on national identity, sovereignty, and the future of the UK.