Nigel Farage’s Controversial Speech in the European Parliament - June 28, 2016

On June 28, 2016, Nigel Farage, then-leader of the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP), delivered a highly controversial speech in the European Parliament. This speech came in the wake of the United Kingdom’s historic referendum on June 23, 2016, where a majority voted to leave the European Union—a decision commonly referred to as “Brexit.”

Context Leading Up to the Speech

• Brexit Referendum: On June 23, 2016, the UK held a referendum to decide whether to remain in or leave the European Union. The result was a narrow victory for the “Leave” campaign, with 51.9% voting to exit the EU.
• Nigel Farage’s Role: Farage was a prominent figure in the “Leave” campaign, advocating for UK sovereignty and control over immigration. His leadership in UKIP was instrumental in pushing for the referendum.

Key Points of the Speech

• Triumphant Tone: Farage’s speech was marked by a triumphant and provocative tone. He declared the Brexit result a victory for the “little people” against the establishment.
• Criticism of the EU: Farage criticized the European Union, suggesting that the Brexit vote was a rejection of its policies and governance. He argued that the EU was undemocratic and out of touch with the citizens of its member states.
• Tensions with MEPs: The speech was met with hostility from many Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Farage’s remarks, particularly his assertion that many MEPs had never done a “proper job,” drew boos and jeers from the audience.
• Call for Reform: Despite the confrontational nature of his speech, Farage also called for reform within the EU, suggesting that other countries might follow the UK’s lead if changes were not made.

Aftermath and Significance

• Political Reactions: Farage’s speech underscored the deep divisions within the European Parliament and highlighted the challenges the EU faced in the wake of Brexit.
• Impact on UK-EU Relations: The speech was indicative of the strained relations between the UK and the EU, setting the tone for the complex negotiations that would follow as the UK sought to exit the union.
• Legacy: Farage’s address remains a significant moment in the Brexit saga, symbolizing the populist wave that influenced the referendum and the broader political landscape in Europe.

In summary, Nigel Farage’s speech on June 28, 2016, was a defining moment in the immediate aftermath of the Brexit referendum, reflecting both the triumph of the “Leave” campaign and the contentious atmosphere within the European Parliament.