Scotland between the UK and the EU against the background of Brexit

Abstract

The article analyzes the political aspects of the independence movement that the Scottish government led by Nicola Sturgeon organized in response to the idea of the UK withdrawal from the EU. The background of Scottish separatism and the negative economic consequences for the region in case of its separation are considered. Scotland plans to hold a new independence referendum until 2021, and according to opinion polls, the proportion of those ready to support leaving the United Kingdom is growing steadily, especially in view of the struggle of PM Boris Johnson with the UK parliament. Under the 1998 Scotland Act, which legislated devolution in the region, local governments pledged to be responsible for complying with the EU standards in the areas of economic development, the rule of law, local governance, fisheries and agriculture, environmental protection, transport and climate change. Close cooperation between Scotland and the EU has contributed to the fact that the region receives investments from the European Union to develop university education, healthcare, small and medium-sized businesses support and employment programs, while representatives of the region are actively involved in the work of the European Parliament. The risk of losing previous economic and political ties with the EU in view of Brexit has reinforced centrifugal tendencies again, putting the independence of Scotland at the top of the agenda of the ruling Scottish National Party.