We live in uncertain times, where one wrong move, one unrealistic political decision can cause a chain reaction with unexpected consequences. This is clearly illustrated by the referendum in Scotland, which has become a major international development with implications that far exceed the possibility of Britain being split up.
There were always problems with Scotland in the United Kingdom. The referendum took another turn when the British Prime Minister made the strategic mistake of vetoing the possibility of a second question in the referendum, asking the Scots if they wish greater autonomy. This veto opened a can of worms, with much more being at stake, not just for Britain, but for Europe as a whole.
It is not a coincidence that all political factions in Britain are struggling to convince the people of the dangers that Scotland’s independence may entail. Everyone, especially Mr. Cameron, is now making the sort promises to the Scottish people that they rejected for years. The economic elite, upon which Britain bases its financial wellbeing, is also warning about the dangers of a Scottish secession.
But it is not just Britain that is concerned, since a precedent with Scotland may trigger a wave of secessions in other countries where there are autonomist movements, such as Spain, Belgium and even Italy. Even the USA rush to declare that while they respect the Scottish people’s right to make a decision, they wish for Britain to remain united and strong.
It is not the first time that history is teaches us how circumstances that radically changed the world map and affected the future of countries stemmed from a wrong political decision. However in our age where the flapping of the wings of a butterfly effect can cause chaos on the other side of the world, it is clear that greater seriousness, attention and long-term predictions are necessary before a political leader can come to a decision. Once again, short-term political expediency and close-mindedness turn out to not be the best way to solve problems…
TO VIMA
