Ireland and Scotland in the same fight? Humza Yousaf, recently elected First Minister of Scotland, has said that if Scotland gains independence, he will actively support the reunification of Ireland. In a speech to the annual conference of the Scottish National Party (SNP), Yousaf stressed that Scottish independence could strengthen movements for a united Ireland… A profound conviction that brings back to the table the eternal debates in Ireland on the possibility of a 100% unified island…
For Scotland’s First Minister, it’s obvious: Scotland, like Northern Ireland, must be able to progressively emancipate itself from British geo-political control.
Indeed, the latter has criticized the British government for its lack of respect for devolved nations, particularly after the Brexit, which he described as disastrous for Scotland.
Yousaf then insisted that Scotland faced a crucial choice: become independent or continue to suffer decisions imposed by Westminster.
In line with these statements, the Scottish First Minister also expressed his desire to join the European Union, believing that Scotland had been snatched from the EU against its will in the 2016 referendum.
He criticized the UK government for its approach to the Good Friday Agreement, accusing London of treating the Northern Ireland peace deal as a “political pawn”.
Finally, Humza Yousaf concluded by declaring that the time had come for Scotland to chart its own course as an independent nation, while supporting the aspirations of other nations, such as Ireland, to achieve their own unity and self-determination.
As a reminder, recent polls show growing support for Scottish independence, with 53% of Scots in favor of separation from the UK.
Yousaf’s speech comes as the SNP seeks to revitalize the independence movement following the departure of former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.
What’s more, the issue of Irish reunification is also growing in importance, particularly in light of political changes in Northern Ireland and the effects of Brexit.
More and more Irish people are raising the issue, hoping one day to find common ground to end a geopolitical split that dates back more than 102 years.
Humza Yousaf’s statements could intensify debates on the UK’s constitutional future.
His support for Irish reunification, combined with his commitment to Scottish independence, could influence relations between the UK’s constituent nations and rekindle discussions on national sovereignty and membership of the European Union.
This could rekindle some underlying tensions, but also reopen a dialogue that is somewhat difficult to establish, even today.
For Northern Ireland, though mellowed, is still seen as a province riven by communal and ideological tensions.
The Brexit, unfortunately, has reawakened past conflicts, creating a particular climate between republican Catholics and loyalist Protestants.
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