Mood Meter : Thumbs down for Brexit from city expats

June 28, 2016

With Britain voting to leave the European Union, we are now entering a brave new world. Ever since the decision has been taken, speculations on the repercussions have been on a rise. We asked a few French and German folk residing in Pune on their thoughts about Britain voting out of the EU.

Fabian (German): I think after Brexit comes ‘bregret’. Seems like many of the British were not aware of what they are voting for and now slowly they realise.

Frank Hoffmann (German): Regional Director, Indo-German Chamber of Commerce: I’m dismayed to see the UK go. While the departure from the EU will hurt the UK most, Europe as a whole will suffer in difficult times. Market reactions have clearly shown that the uncertainty hurts business world over.

Marie Truchassou (French): I am still shocked and sad. UK is a great country which was fully part of the EU for me despite they were not under all EU regulations. We should accept the results from the democracy and go ahead. Politics from EU should take the opportunity to reassess Europe and its purpose.

Marion Prieur (French): I was very choked when I saw on the news that the UK was leaving the European Union. I can’t imagine Europe without Great Britain and I fear the end of the Union. The Brexit means a regress for me and I’m very disappointed as Europe is now so weakened, especially because the UK was a founder member. I really hope that other countries will not follow their lead.

Richard Kirchberg (German): The entire situation has been very unfortunate. I think this will be a bigger issue for UK than the EU. UK will be headed for a dramatic economic downturn as they will have no access to EU and its policies. International companies will also shift their headquarters so that they can avail of the EU. All these factors have not been taken into consideration by the people of Britain while voting as a result they will be facing a bad time. Migration also will not stop just because they are not part of the EU, like they think. EU will not be warm towards them and will make strict measurements to show other countries the repercussions of doing so.

Romain Fournier (French): Well, I’m not disappointed because of the Brexit itself. I’m disappointed that too many British realised too late what it means. Didn’t you see what are the most searched things on Google, in UK, since the Brexit? Worth to see. Plus, I’m disappointed with David Cameron’s departure. He is a great prime minister. Moreover, it’s a real shame for Scotland, which was staying in UK to stay in EU (not only, but still). Finally, I’m afraid the EU equilibrium is lost and won’t be as good anymore, and that it could lead to tensions between France and Germany.