Britain’s decline is relative, and is influenced by the fact that within living memory the UK was the world’s hyperpower. Decline though did not relegate the UK to the ranks of some ex-colonial powers like Turkey, but into the league of France, Germany and Japan (hardly disrespectable company).
For almost all the post-war period – a few bumpy years notwithstanding – the UK never dipped below number five in the world economy rankings (where it is today). Moreover, it remains (alongside China, France, Russia and the US) one of five permanent UN Security Council members and recognised states with nuclear weapons.
Unlike France, the UK has the scaffolding to rebuild its power status through a unique arrangement with the Commonwealth Realms (which includes both another G8 Country, Canada, and another G20 country, Australia). Combined, these 16 states would represent both the world’s third largest economy and largest polity.
In addition, it is one of only two countries on earth in the premier league of higher education (the other being the US).
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