Tensions are high as the September 18 referendum on Scottish independence grows closer. With polls showing massive gains by Scottish nationalists in recent weeks, the outcome of Thursday’s vote is too close to call.
The referendum is attracting a huge amount of attention in Scotland where a record 97% of adults have registered to vote. This figure includes 16- and 17-year-olds who are now eligible to vote for the first time. And everyone has an opinion.
“Even J.K. Rowling of Harry Potter fame got involved,” says World Views panelist and Assistant Dean of the College of International Studies at the University of Oklahoma Rebecca Cruise.
Independence would have a huge effect on both Scotland and the United Kingdom. Many companies, including the Royal Bank of Scotland, have said they will leave in the event of a vote for independence. Oil revenue from the North Sea and the UK National Debt would have to be divided. An independent Scotland would also have to take charge of its national and financial security.
The bigger question, though, is how Scottish independence would affect the rest of Europe, Cruise says.
“Look at Spain, for example,” Cruise says. “The Catalan area is looking now to also gain independence, and they're looking to Scotland as the leader here. The Basque region and, of course, the Flemish in Belgium are also looking.”
Scottish independence might also impact whether or not the UK stays in the European Union. Without the Scottish influence in Parliament, the UK might choose to leave. As one of the largest economies in the EU, its departure could have a devastating effect. Scotland, however, might join.
“Scotland very much wants to be a part of the European Union,” Cruise says. “And if the two are to divide, Scotland has already taken steps to try to enter the Union.”
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