Johnson's resignation could trigger ripple effect in EU govs: Expert

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
8 Jul 2022 11:32
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An expert warns that Johnson's resignation could pave the way for the breakdown of other governments in Europe.

Impact of Johnson's resignation on the EU

Boris Johnson announced on Thursday his resignation from the Conservative Party but indicated that he would remain in power until his successor is appointed.

This decision came after he was deserted by ministers, lawmakers, and allies who no longer consider him fit to govern following the latest in a series of scandals that broke their willingness to support him.

The fall of Boris Johnson comes after Partygate – the (many) parties organized at 10 Downing Street during the pandemic when the population had to remain confined, isolated, or even sick in a context of unprecedented economic crisis.

Citizens saw their gas and electricity bills increase by 54% in April without the government doing anything to address it. The early impacts of Brexit were also felt with sluggish exports and imports, a shortage of labor, the threat of the end of the agreements in Northern Ireland, and a rise in the price of basic commodities – quite the opposite of what had been promised by the Prime Minister and his allies at the time of the referendum.

According to Executive Vice President of the Eurasia Center in Washington, Earl Rasmussen, Johnson's departure could signify a potential trigger for governmental change in the EU, noting that "this follows the collapse of Macron's government in France as well as other EU countries. Many more will likely see changes ahead to include Germany and Italy."

He also added that all major Western leaders, including in the US, "need to be replaced" before the world will see "the potential for improvement."

After the announcement of his resignation, Boris Johnson phoned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The Ukrainian presidency thanked him for his support “in the most difficult times”.

His departure is "an opportunity to return to the true spirit of partnership and mutual respect that we need," said Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin, as relations between Dublin and London are strained over North Ireland.

After years of stormy relations, the European Union also hopes that the departure of the Brexit champion will be an opportunity to renew the dialogue with London on Northern Ireland.

Officially, the European Commission declined to comment, but for the EU's former chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, “the departure of Boris Johnson opens a new page in relations with Great Britain."

The departure of Boris Johnson opens a new page in relations with 🇬🇧 .

May it be more constructive, more respectful of commitments made, in particular regarding peace & stability in NI, and more friendly with partners in 🇪🇺.

Because there’s so much more to be done together.
— Michel Barnier (@MichelBarnier) July 7, 2022