Research: Exploring the Economic Impact of Inequality Post-Brexit

Research summary

The project examines the consequences of Brexit for the island of Ireland - in particular the impact on individuals and what the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union (EU) means for inequality.

There are now two new distinct relationships with the EU on the island: the Republic of Ireland remains an EU member state while Northern Ireland is part of the UK, a non-EU member state.

These new relationships affect individuals either side of the border in differing ways, which the project seeks to understand. It asks:

• How is economic inequality understood and experienced by individuals post-Brexit?

• How does economic inequality impact individuals’ attitudes towards the EU post-Brexit?

• How does EU/non-EU membership impact individuals?

• How can the EU, Irish and UK governments work effectively and lead to better material outcomes for individuals post-Brexit?

While much has been written about Brexit and the impact on the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, little is known about how it will affect individuals’ attitudes towards economic inequality.

There is little research into whether individuals think they will be better or worse off financially as a result of Brexit. And there is an evidence gap about understanding how access and opportunities for individuals will differ because of this new relationship.

The project will put its research findings in context, tracing the history of public attitudes to and understanding of membership of the EU on the island of Ireland.