What smashed the far right in east London? A playbook that said connect, connect, connect | Margaret Hodge
In a recent reflection, Labour peer Margaret Hodge recounts the strategic measures her party employed to combat the rise of the British National Party (BNP) in Barking during the lead-up to the 2010 general election. Hodge emphasizes that the current resurgence of far-right movements across Europe, fueled by the political climate following the 2024 presidential election and the potential return of Donald Trump, calls for a revisitation of the tactics used in Barking. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and nationalist rhetoric, posed a significant threat to Labour’s hold on the constituency, prompting a concerted effort to counteract their influence.
Hodge notes the stark differences between the political landscape of 2010 and today. Back then, social media was not the omnipresent force it is now, and the political discourse was less fragmented. The absence of a pandemic or major conflicts in Europe also shaped the environment in which the BNP operated. Despite these differences, Hodge argues that the principles of grassroots organizing, community engagement, and coalition-building that were instrumental in defeating the BNP remain relevant. She recalls how Labour mobilized local residents, fostering a sense of community and resilience against the divisive narratives propagated by the BNP. By emphasizing unity and shared values, Labour was able to reclaim Barking, demonstrating that concerted political action can effectively challenge extremist ideologies.
As the far right continues to gain ground, Hodge urges contemporary political actors to learn from the past. The lessons from Barking highlight the importance of proactive engagement with communities, addressing their concerns, and countering the allure of populist rhetoric with a compelling vision for a more inclusive society. Hodge’s insights serve as a reminder that while the context may have evolved, the fight against extremism remains a pressing issue that requires strategic, community-focused responses.
Labour peer Margaret Hodge shares how the party tackled the rise of the British National party in Barking before the 2010 general election
Once again, the far right is advancing across Europe, emboldened by the outcome of the 2024 presidential election and the return of Donald Trump to the White House. To turn back extremism masquerading as populism, I believe there are lessons we can learn from our battle against the extreme right in Barking in 2010, when
we crushed the BNP
.
The context is different. There was little social media before 2010; we hadn’t been through a pandemic; there was no major war in Europe and no serious challenge to a rules-based international order.
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