Acknowledging the democratic will of the Scottish People, as demonstrated in the 2016 EU referendum, where 62% voted to remain in the European Union, and in the 2014 Scottish Independence referendum, where many voted to stay in the United Kingdom based on the promise that the UK would remain in the EU. As a result the people of Scotland had been lied to and consequently kidnapped from our European family.
Recognising that the UK Government has since disregarded fundamental democratic principles, violated international agreements with the European Union in the Brexit process, and undermined devolved powers of the Devolved Nations through measures such as the Internal Market Act 2020 and the blocking of the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill in 2022.
Highlighting that the Westminster system continues to pose a threat to Scotland’s democracy, in contrast to the protections of democratic values upheld through EU membership. In spite of these obstacles, Scotland has steadfastly demonstrated its commitment to European principles. This dedication is reflected in the Withdrawal from the European Union Continuity (Scotland) Act 2021, which ensures Scottish legislation remains aligned with EU law where feasible, and notably extends to preserving the symbolism of European unity by protecting the Flag of the European Union through Parliamentary Motion.
In light of these considerations, the European Free Alliance Youth calls for:
● The reaffirmation of unwavering support for the Scottish people’s right to self-determination, as enshrined in Article 1(2) of the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
● The commitment to advocating for a clear and supportive pathway for Scotland's re-entry into the European Union, ensuring a smooth and cooperative process. In essence, pledging to leave the light on for Scotland, guiding its return to the European family.
● Recognition of the potential of an independent Scotland to contribute meaningfully to the European project, upholding shared values of democracy, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
| Explanatory Notes: Historical Context Scotland has a long and distinct history as an independent sovereign state, with its own cultural, legal, and educational institutions. The Treaty of Union in 1707 (an international treaty) merged Scotland and England into the Kingdom of Great Britain, but Scotland retained many aspects of autonomy, such as its separate legal system which had been gradually eroded. Over the centuries, debates about Scotland’s sovereignty and the imbalance of power between Westminster and Holyrood have shaped calls for independence. Modern Political Landscape The movement for Scottish independence has gained momentum in recent decades, particularly since the reconvening of the Scottish Parliament in 1999. The devolution process gave Scotland control over various domestic matters, including health, education, and justice, but key areas such as defence, foreign policy, and much of economic policy remain reserved to Westminster (UK Parliament). Even then, there is no codified constitution which has allowed for Westminster to overrule supposed ‘devolved powers’. Many Scots feel that the current arrangement does not grant Scotland enough control over its present or future with current polls still pointing in favour of independence in the EU. |