Recent polls conducted in the United Kingdom reveal a significant shift in public concerns, with immigration emerging as the top issue for the first time since 2016. This change comes in the wake of recent unrest targeting migrants and Muslims across the country.
According to an Ipsos poll, 34% of Britons now consider immigration the most pressing issue, surpassing healthcare (30%), the economy (29%), crime (25%), and inflation (20%). This marks a notable change in public sentiment, reflecting the impact of recent events on national discourse.
The UK, known for its diverse population and multicultural society, has experienced significant changes in its immigration landscape since the Brexit referendum in 2016. The country's departure from the European Union on January 31, 2020, led to the implementation of a points-based immigration system, altering the dynamics of migration.
Net migration to the UK reached record levels in recent years, with 764,000 in 2022 and 685,000 in 2023. These figures have contributed to ongoing debates about the country's immigration policies and their impact on various sectors, including the National Health Service (NHS), which has been a cornerstone of British society since 1948.
The Ipsos poll, conducted from August 7-13, 2024, also highlighted increased concerns about crime and race relations, with 11% of respondents citing the latter as their top issue. These findings align with another survey by YouGov, conducted August 5-6, 2024, which similarly placed immigration at the forefront of national concerns.
"The impact of the recent riots across the UK is clear in this month's data...the level of concern about crime and race relations has also surged to recent highs."
It's important to note that while these polls reflect current public sentiment, the UK has a long history of immigration that has significantly contributed to its cultural and economic landscape. As the world's sixth-largest economy by nominal GDP, the UK continues to grapple with balancing economic needs, social cohesion, and immigration policies.
As the country navigates these complex issues, it's crucial to remember that the UK remains a parliamentary democracy with a diverse population of approximately 67.3 million as of 2023. The ongoing debates surrounding immigration will likely continue to shape political discourse and policy decisions in the coming years.