Leaders of Scotland’s, Wales’ and Northern Ireland’s main pro-independence and pro-Irish unity parties are set to meet in Cardiff on Monday. The rare gathering will focus on self-determination and possible constitutional change across the three nations.
Scottish National Party leader John Swinney, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth and Sinn Fein deputy leader Michelle O’Neill will take part in the meeting. O’Neill also serves as Northern Ireland’s First Minister.
The three leaders say they want to explore practical ways their parties can cooperate. Their discussions are expected to cover the economy, energy, European relations and international cooperation.
Leaders Push for Self-Determination
The parties said they would discuss how they can work together on issues affecting Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They also intend to call on the UK government to prepare for possible constitutional changes.
In particular, the leaders want the British government to prepare, plan and facilitate constitutional processes in all three territories.
The meeting comes shortly after US President Donald Trump expressed support for a united Ireland. His comments have added fresh international attention to the debate over Northern Ireland’s constitutional future.
However, the UK’s political leadership has continued to oppose an immediate referendum in Northern Ireland. The source material says British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has ruled out such a vote.
Scotland and Wales Seek Greater Autonomy
Scotland has already held an independence referendum. In 2014, voters rejected independence and chose to remain part of the United Kingdom.
Since then, Scottish governments have repeatedly pushed for another vote. However, Westminster has rejected calls for an immediate second referendum.
Meanwhile, Plaid Cymru continues to campaign for greater self-government and eventual independence for Wales. The party has increasingly placed constitutional reform at the centre of its political agenda.
The independence movements have also gained representation within devolved institutions. The SNP in Scotland and Plaid Cymru in Wales are currently the largest pro-independence parties in their respective parliaments.
Sinn Fein and Irish Unity Debate
Sinn Fein has also become a major force in Northern Ireland’s political system. The party has been the largest party in the Northern Ireland Assembly since 2022.
Its position is based on achieving Irish unity through democratic means. Sinn Fein has argued that people in Northern Ireland should eventually have the opportunity to decide whether they want to remain part of the UK or join a united Ireland.
The Cardiff summit therefore brings together parties pursuing different constitutional goals. Scotland and Wales are seeking independence, while Sinn Fein campaigns for Irish unity.
Despite those differences, the parties say there are areas where cooperation could benefit all three nations.
Devolved Governments Hold Key Powers
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own devolved institutions. These bodies have significant responsibilities in areas such as healthcare, education, housing and transport.
They also have powers relating to environmental policy. In addition, some devolved institutions have limited authority over taxation.
The summit could therefore provide an opportunity for the parties to discuss cooperation beyond constitutional questions.
For now, the meeting is unlikely to produce an immediate change in the UK’s constitutional arrangements. However, the gathering highlights the growing coordination between political movements seeking greater self-determination.
