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 revisits the party’s successful strategy against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking during the lead-up to the 2010 general election, drawing parallels to the current rise of far-right movements across Europe. Hodge emphasizes the importance of learning from past battles against extremism, especially in light of the recent political climate following the 2024 presidential election and the potential return of Donald Trump to power. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and nationalist rhetoric, posed a significant threat in Barking, a constituency that became a focal point for the party’s activities. Hodge highlights that the Labour Party’s decisive actions at that time not only thwarted the BNP’s ambitions but also provided a blueprint for combating similar ideologies today.
The circumstances surrounding the 2010 election were markedly different from today. Hodge notes that social media was not yet a dominant force, which limited the rapid dissemination of extremist propaganda. The absence of a global pandemic and the relative stability of the international order also shaped the political landscape. In Barking, the Labour Party employed grassroots campaigning, focused on community engagement, and countered the BNP’s divisive messages with a strong narrative of inclusivity and solidarity. Hodge recalls how the party mobilized local residents, emphasizing shared values and the benefits of diversity, which resonated with voters and ultimately secured a significant victory over the far-right party.
As far-right ideologies resurface in contemporary Europe, Hodge argues that the lessons learned from Barking are more relevant than ever. She advocates for a proactive approach that combines community outreach with a robust defense of democratic values. By fostering dialogue and understanding within communities, political parties can effectively counteract the allure of populist extremism. Hodge’s insights serve as a reminder that while the context may have evolved, the core principles of unity and resilience against divisive rhetoric remain crucial in the fight against the far right. The Labour Party’s experience in Barking offers valuable strategies for today’s political landscape, emphasizing the need for vigilance and active engagement in defending democratic ideals.
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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