Brexit continues to have a significant impact on the UK, with job seekers from Europe turning away from the country in search of employment opportunities elsewhere. According to a report from The Star Online, Irish workers, who were previously ranked second among nationalities seeking jobs in Britain, have dropped out of the top 10. This shift in the composition of foreign labor seeking employment in the UK is attributed to Brexit and the anti-immigrant sentiment expressed by politicians [6df91fbd] [c646e8d5].
The political focus on immigration during the UK's general election campaign and the growing anti-immigrant tone have contributed to this change. The report also highlights that the flow of foreign workers into the UK has shifted away from the European Union (EU) and towards countries further afield. In 2016, the top four countries where workers were searching for British jobs were the United States, Ireland, France, and Spain. However, in 2024, the top four countries are India, the United States, Pakistan, and Australia. This shift reflects the barriers to entering the UK that have been put in place since Brexit [6df91fbd] [c646e8d5].
The impact of Brexit on job seekers is not limited to European workers. Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, has gained popularity by promising to tighten immigration rules. This political climate and the liberalization of immigration rules since Brexit have had a greater impact on job seekers from countries outside the EU. Irish citizens can still work and live freely in the UK, but individuals from other countries have faced more significant barriers. Additionally, the shift in job seekers from Europe to other parts of the world may also be influenced by a strengthening job market in their home countries and other parts of Europe [6df91fbd] [c646e8d5].
Brexit and demographics have forever altered the flow of workers across the Irish Sea. Irish jobseekers have dropped out of the list of top 10 nationalities expressing interest in UK jobs. The number of Irish people living and working in the UK has decreased, with a fall of 80,000 or around 20% in the past 10 years. The UK's anti-immigration sentiment and high cost of living have contributed to the decline in Irish interest. Irish emigrants are now considering other destinations such as the Gulf, Australia, the EU, and Canada. Despite steady income rises, housing remains a key issue for young Irish workers, making the UK less attractive. The UK's economic growth and job prospects have also been affected by Brexit. The UK's exit from the EU has led to immigration being a key issue for UK voters. Irish people in the UK have expressed concerns about the cost of living, finding affordable housing, and the job market. Irish emigration remains high, but the UK is no longer the preferred destination. [c646e8d5]