Summary – Rights & Citizenship

The data above shows that the majority of applications to the EU Settlement Scheme in Grampian were accepted. However, financial costs of future citizenship applications are a significant worry for many EU nationals.

Though there is limited evidence available and more research in this area is necessary, a local survey shows a gap in participation, with significantly lower percentages of ethnic minorities voting in elections compared with the Scottish/British population, and the same trend with regards to engagement in civic activities. This is attributed to lack of knowledge about the political system or how to get involved, language barriers, and not being allowed to vote. However, it is relevant to note that the research was carried out prior to the extension of voting rights implemented in 2021.