For two years now in Scotland we have debated our country’s future. Never before in this nation’s history – perhaps not in Europe’s recent history – has there been such a period of intense self-reflection, with such a sharp focus on our country’s social, economic and political direction.
Scotland’s independence referendum has been a model of democracy. Although most would fail to think of it, the fact that we stand as a nation on the cusp of self-determination not through strife or bloodshed but through an open, consented and wholly democratic process is no mean feat.
We have witnessed a reinvigoration of democracy as a result of the referendum, with many people in Scotland engaging in politics for the first time in their lives. Our electorate is now more switched on than at any point in decades.
Thousands have taken up interests in social and economic policy matters, begun to scrutinise the workings of democracy and developed an impressive understanding of Scotland’s economic strengths and challenges.
We expect a very high turnout on polling day – perhaps over 80 per cent, or around two and a half times as many votes cast in May’s elections to the European parliament in Scotland. For all of this, I am sure, Scotland is richer – whichever way the vote goes.
"We expect a very high turnout on polling day – perhaps over 80 per cent, or around two and a half times as many votes cast in May’s elections to the European parliament in Scotland"
I am also very proud to have been part of an independence movement which embraces diversity and inclusivity and encapsulates the vibrancy of modern Scotland.
A movement which has spawned dedicated groups of businesspeople, artists and creatives, healthcare professionals and young people campaigning for independence, also includes such organisations as Scots Asians for Yes, Africans for an Independent Scotland, English Scots for Yes, Polish for Yes, French for Yes and many more people from any and all communities.
Our case is that the people who live and work in Scotland, no matter our origins or backgrounds, should be in control of our country’s future.
All of those who have made Scotland their home have an equal stake in its success – together we share similar needs and hold the same aspirations, ambitions and hopes for this northern European nation that seeks, simply, to become a state again.
It is our goal that together, we can build a fairer, more modern and more democratic country in which we can all prosper and thrive. These twin commitments to democracy and diversity I believe capture the essence of modern Scotland – and indeed of modern Europe.
The European project has been driven by a simple idea – the ever-closer union of the peoples of Europe. We are one of those peoples and we embrace the partnership that the EU represents – not the United Kingdom’s incorporating union, but rather a modern and cooperative union – a 21st century partnership of equal nation states.
"we embrace the partnership that the EU represents – not the United Kingdom’s incorporating union, but rather a modern and cooperative union – a 21st century partnership of equal nation states"
With independence we can join the world as a partner for progress and peace. It is based on – and will secure – a stronger and more representative politics here in Scotland, and will enshrine the rights of our people in a written constitution, bringing us firmly into the European mainstream.
And putting the choices about Scotland’s future in Scotland’s hands means we can secure the economic and social progress that the people of Scotland wish to see, rather than leaving matters in the hands of a Westminster parliament that knows and cares as much about what’s best for Scotland as the Bundestag does for Denmark.
This referendum has been immensely positive for Scotland, and it presents an incredible opportunity for our future.
I look forward to an independent Scotland joining the European family of nations and making an even more positive contribution to the world.