Jon Burrows urges “Unionism for the Future” in Orange Standard address

Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA, writing in The Orange Standard calls for “Unionism for the Future”

Unionism stands at a crossroads — and its next chapter, according to Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows, will be shaped by whether it thinks long-term, works together and delivers for everyday people.

Writing in the March 2026 edition of The Orange Standard, the official publication of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, the Jon Burrows sets out a candid and forward-looking vision under the theme “Safeguarding Political & Cultural Unionism for the Future”.

As Leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and MLA for North Antrim, Burrows describes it as “an honour” to address members of the Orange Order, praising the institution as “a pillar of unionist heritage, rooted in unshakeable faith, unwavering loyalty, selfless service, and a vibrant community spirit.”

But the tone quickly shifts from tribute to challenge.

“The challenges are real”

Burrows argues that unionism today faces a new generation of pressures — from “shifting demographics” and “political realignments” to “relentless campaigns to rewrite history and weaponise culture, and a mainstream media that often fails to understand or respect our identity.”

“The challenges are real,” he writes. “How we navigate them will define our success for decades to come.”

His central argument is that republicans “have played the long game” — and that unionism “in its broadest sense, must now do the same.”

He calls for what he describes as “strategic thinking and a vision that looks beyond the next headline or election,” alongside renewed collaboration across the unionist family.

“A strategy for renewal and growth is essential,” he states, adding that “closer, smarter collaboration within the Unionist family must be central.”

Four priorities for electoral recovery

Acknowledging declining electoral performances and falling morale, Burrows insists “reversal is achievable” — but only through focus and discipline.

He identifies four priorities: motivating apathetic unionist voters; maximising transfers in Council and Assembly elections; crafting a tailored Westminster strategy to prevent losses “like Lagan Valley”; and winning new converts to the Union.

“Pacts alone are simplistic,” he warns. “Real gains lie” in delivery across those four areas.

He also calls on the Orange Order to continue encouraging voter registration, postal and proxy voting, and practical support such as transport to polling stations.

Making the case for the Union

A substantial portion of the article is devoted to what Burrows describes as a proactive case for Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom.

“The case for the Union is compelling – we must make it together,” he writes, urging supporters to counter Sinn Féin’s description of Northern Ireland as a “basket case.”

He highlights what he describes as Europe’s lowest unemployment rate, a “world class workforce,” a strong agri-food sector contributing to UK food security, lower living costs than the Republic of Ireland, UK security protections amid global tensions, and healthcare that is free at the point of delivery.

“Let’s sell this case proactively. Share these facts widely,” he writes, arguing that republicans have “dominated the PR battle for too long with spin and flannel.”

Social media and resetting the narrative

Burrows also calls for a more strategic approach to modern communications, particularly social media.

“Younger generations consume information differently; messaging must be short, sharp, and compelling,” he says.

While criticising what he describes as imbalanced mainstream media coverage, he suggests social media offers an opportunity to “reset the narrative.”

In doing so, he points to the Orange Order’s charitable and developmental work — from fundraising efforts to the work of the Lord Enniskillen Memorial Orange Society — as examples of a broader story that extends beyond parades.

“The Order builds futures,” he writes, citing skills development in leadership, budgeting, project management and fundraising, particularly in working-class communities facing educational underachievement.

Reform, delivery and Stormont

Beyond cultural messaging, Burrows argues that political unionism must demonstrate competence in government.

“Families care about shorter waiting lists, excellent schools, smooth roads, thriving jobs, and safe communities,” he writes. “Competence in government makes the strongest case for the Union: it delivers prosperity and stability for all.”

He rejects both the collapse of Stormont and stagnation as flawed options, arguing instead for reform focused on “stronger scrutiny, accountability, and delivery.”

“Common sense and competence are in short supply – we must restore them,” he states.

History, responsibility and standards

Burrows also addresses the legacy of the Troubles, noting that 343 Orangemen and one Sister were killed — “over ten per cent of total Troubles fatalities.”

He pledges to “stand resolute with all shades of unionism to challenge republican distortion of the past and to uphold the innocence of victims and the integrity of history.”

At the same time, he acknowledges internal lessons.

“Polarising language alienates; shouting loudest does not work,” he writes, referencing decisions he describes as having been “counterproductive.”

On cultural matters, he warns that “one racist effigy on a bonfire creates an image that travels around the world, overshadowing an otherwise peaceful celebration,” stressing that safeguarding traditions requires “internal leadership and high standards.”

A call to work “smartly and strategically”

The article closes with a message of shared purpose.

“Political and cultural unionism share pride, a compelling story, and the same challenges and opportunities,” Burrows writes. “By working together – smartly and strategically – we can overcome those challenges and flourish.”

He concludes: “Northern Ireland is a great place, with great people, and a great future. As the new UUP Leader, I commit to working with you to promote our country, our Union, and our heritage.”

---

At a glance…

• UUP Leader Jon Burrows used an address in The Orange Standard to call for long-term strategic unity across political and cultural unionism.

• He said unionism faces serious challenges including demographic change, political shifts and what he described as attempts to rewrite history.

• Burrows outlined four electoral priorities: re-engaging non-voters, maximising transfers, protecting Westminster seats and winning new supporters for the Union.

• He urged the Orange Order to help boost voter registration and participation, while highlighting its charitable work and community leadership role.

• He argued Northern Ireland’s economic performance, lower living costs and UK security framework make a strong case for remaining in the Union.

• Burrows called for Stormont reform focused on accountability and delivery, and pledged to challenge what he described as distortion of the Troubles, noting that 343 Orangemen and one Sister were killed.

• He also warned that isolated incidents such as racist effigies can damage unionism’s reputation internationally.