This is interesting. I donβt have a problem with people being proud of their region - I think, looking back through history, that has generally always been the case. Itβs natural to feel an affinity with the area and community you grew up in.
I grew up in Denmark. Over there, people are immensely proud of the regions they come from - and yet, there is a sense of unity in Denmark far less prevalent over here. Living in West Jutland, all the people from my community were proud to identify as βVest Jysk,β and yet were also fiercely patriotic. One of the first things you notice when you go to Denmark are the amount of flags everywhere - on cards, home decor, cakes, you name it. Most Danish homes have a flag pole with their national flag attached.
So I donβt think itβs people being proud of their region thatβs the problem. And actually, Iβm not so sure there really is a problem in the first place. I think itβs wonderful that we have so many different identities in this country. Itβs makes life more fun. Okay, so many British people may not profusely state how proud they are of their country, but that doesnβt mean they have no attachment to it. I believe itβs down to the British self-deprecating humour, which isnβt really a thing elsewhere in Europe. Phrases like βtypical Britain!β are often thrown around, but usually out of fondness rather than genuine contempt.
I love this country, and Iβm proud of being (half) English. The real concern I have is about many of our politicians, who really seem to want to divide this nation. But amongst the people, I donβt really think thereβs a problem!