Jon Burrows, leader of the Ulster Unionist Party and MLA for North Antrim, outlined a vision for unionism in the March 2026 edition of The Orange Standard, publication of the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland.

Burrows identified challenges for unionism including demographic shifts, political changes and efforts to alter historical narratives. He stated that republicans have pursued long-term goals and urged unionism to adopt similar strategic planning and cooperation within its spectrum.

He listed priorities to reverse electoral setbacks: engaging non-voting unionists, improving vote transfers in local and Assembly elections, securing Westminster seats against losses such as in Lagan Valley, and attracting new Union supporters. Burrows asked the Orange Order to promote voter registration, postal and proxy voting, and provide transport to polling stations.

Burrows highlighted Northern Ireland's low unemployment rate in Europe, skilled workforce, strong agriculture sector, reduced living costs compared to the Republic of Ireland, UK security benefits and free-at-point-use healthcare as arguments for the Union. He called for active promotion of these points and better use of social media for concise messaging.

He praised the Orange Order's community efforts in charity, skills training in leadership and management, and support for areas with low educational attainment. Burrows stressed that unionism needs to prove effective governance through better health waiting times, schools, infrastructure, employment and security.

Burrows proposed Stormont reforms for greater oversight and results, rejecting shutdowns or inertia. He noted 343 Orangemen and one female member died in the Troubles, representing over ten percent of total deaths, and committed to countering historical misrepresentations while avoiding divisive rhetoric.

He cautioned that single incidents like offensive bonfire displays harm unionism's global image and require internal standards. Burrows ended by pledging cooperation with cultural unionism to advance Northern Ireland, the Union and heritage.