Post-Brexit, UK must stay calm, keep economy strong

Europe witnessed a historic event last week as the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union (EU).

The mood across the country has been mixed since the results were announced on Friday. There is frustration, disbelief and despair among those who voted to remain in the EU. For many people, it is about the future of the younger generation and the economy.

Walking around a high street of a county outside London this past weekend, I felt a sombre mood in the air. Perhaps, it was just reflecting what I was feeling.

Just last weekend, this high street was bustling with “In” and “Out” campaigners. Now, there is talk of another Scottish referendum, another general election and the EU is trying to keep its remaining 27 members together after Britain’s exit.

It would be unfair to label those who voted for the UK to leave as xenophobic. That would be a simplistic view because several issues were at the core of the EU debate.

Many voters remained undecided or unsure up to the eve of the referendum. There were conflict and confusion over facts and figures about the EU and how effectively it functioned.

Throughout the campaign, there was a tug-of-war between those who stressed the economic benefits and those who expressed concerns over immigration. While the outcome of the referendum was narrow, it is nevertheless final. That is how democracy works.

It is human nature to fear change, and Britain’s exit from the EU is a huge change.

It is still early to tell what will happen in the coming weeks and months. It would take about two years for Britain to negotiate its exit with the EU.

For now, we will have to keep calm and carry on, and keep the economy moving. This could be a new beginning for the UK, and it could emerge stronger and better. The UK is still a strong economic force in Europe and the world.

I choose to remain positive.