The United Kingdom (UK), situated off the northwestern coast of mainland Europe, is a historic and ethnically diverse island nation. Made up of four countries — England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland — the UK is home to about 67 million residents. In this piece, we unpack some of the essentials about the UK, from its political makeup to its geographic location.
The UK is unique amongst parliamentary democracies, in that it remains a government formed by the people, for the people. This new system provides for meaningful representation, engagement and participation in the decision-making process. The UK is a constitutional monarchy. This entails that a monarch is the head of state, while elected representatives manage the day-to-day governance of the nation.
Geographically, the UK shares borders with its constituent countries—Scotland to the north, Wales to the west, and England as the largest territory. Each country in the UK has a rich, distinctive history and cultural heritage. Scotland is justifiably famous for its rugged landscapes and ancient castles, and Wales is home to a thriving culture in its own language. England, as the cornerstone of the UK, is the hub of this dual economic and cultural powerhouse.
And with a population of just under 67 million, the UK stands out as a unique mosaic of ethnicities, cultures, and communities. The energetic musical cities of London, Birmingham, and Manchester are hallmarks of this youthful, multicultural, multi-ethnic fabric. In these cities, residents from all walks of life work together to shape the country’s civic handprint. The UK’s rich history has shaped its present-day society, making it an intriguing place for both residents and visitors alike.
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