Belfast, June 7, 2025 — A landmark Northern Ireland Life & Times survey, published today, shows backing for a united Ireland has risen to 36%, closing in on the 42% who favour remaining part of the United Kingdom. This six-point margin represents the smallest recorded gap in over a decade, indicating a notable shift in public sentiment across the province.
The annual survey — conducted by Queen’s University Belfast and the Ulster University — canvassed 3,301 adults between April 15 and May 10. For the first time, respondents aged 18–24 were more likely to support unity (48%) than union (44%), underscoring a generational divide that researchers say could reshape future political debates.
“Today’s results signal a marked change among younger voters, who are increasingly motivated by economic and cultural ties across Ireland,” said Dr. Emily Harrison, co-director of the survey. “While older demographics remain more sceptical, youth engagement could drive momentum toward a border poll in the coming years.”
Political reactions have been swift. Sinn Féin’s Northern Ireland leader, Michelle O’Neill, described the findings as “a clear mandate for unity” and called on Stormont to start planning for a referendum. In contrast, Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) warned against rushing any vote, with party chair Sir Jeffrey Donaldson insisting “the status quo remains overwhelmingly supported overall.”
Under the Good Friday Agreement, a border poll can be called if it appears likely that a majority would support unification. While no formal mechanism exists to trigger a vote, both Stormont’s First Minister and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland could advise the UK government to hold one. Experts caution that shifting demographics and Brexit’s economic fallout have fuelled renewed interest in constitutional change.
Despite the narrowing gap, a significant portion of respondents (22%) remained undecided, highlighting the potential for opinion campaigns to influence outcomes. Economic concerns — particularly over healthcare, housing, and employment — were cited as key factors prompting reconsideration of long-held positions.
Key Facts
The annual survey — conducted by Queen’s University Belfast and the Ulster University — canvassed 3,301 adults between April 15 and May 10. For the first time, respondents aged 18–24 were more likely to support unity (48%) than union (44%), underscoring a generational divide that researchers say could reshape future political debates.
“Today’s results signal a marked change among younger voters, who are increasingly motivated by economic and cultural ties across Ireland,” said Dr. Emily Harrison, co-director of the survey. “While older demographics remain more sceptical, youth engagement could drive momentum toward a border poll in the coming years.”
Political reactions have been swift. Sinn Féin’s Northern Ireland leader, Michelle O’Neill, described the findings as “a clear mandate for unity” and called on Stormont to start planning for a referendum. In contrast, Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) warned against rushing any vote, with party chair Sir Jeffrey Donaldson insisting “the status quo remains overwhelmingly supported overall.”
Under the Good Friday Agreement, a border poll can be called if it appears likely that a majority would support unification. While no formal mechanism exists to trigger a vote, both Stormont’s First Minister and Secretary of State for Northern Ireland could advise the UK government to hold one. Experts caution that shifting demographics and Brexit’s economic fallout have fuelled renewed interest in constitutional change.
Despite the narrowing gap, a significant portion of respondents (22%) remained undecided, highlighting the potential for opinion campaigns to influence outcomes. Economic concerns — particularly over healthcare, housing, and employment — were cited as key factors prompting reconsideration of long-held positions.
Key Facts
- Survey period: April 15 – May 10, 2025
- Sample size: 3,301 adults across Northern Ireland
- Support for unity: 36% (up from 32% in 2024)
- Support for union: 42% (down from 44% in 2024)
- Under-25 support: 48% for unity vs. 44% for union
