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 revisited the party’s successful strategies against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking during the lead-up to the 2010 general election. As far-right movements gain traction across Europe, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s potential return to the White House following the 2024 presidential election, Hodge emphasizes the importance of learning from past experiences in combating extremism disguised as populism. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and nationalist rhetoric, posed a significant challenge in Barking, where Hodge and her team implemented a grassroots campaign that not only addressed local concerns but also countered the BNP’s divisive messaging.
Hodge highlighted the stark differences between the political landscape of 2010 and today’s environment. At that time, social media was not yet a dominant force in shaping public opinion, and the political discourse was less fragmented. The absence of a global pandemic and ongoing conflicts in Europe also created a different context for political engagement. Hodge’s team focused on community outreach, emphasizing shared values and the importance of diversity, which resonated with Barking’s electorate. They engaged local residents through door-to-door canvassing, public meetings, and by addressing real issues affecting the community, such as housing and employment. This proactive approach not only dismantled the BNP’s narrative but also reinforced the Labour Party’s commitment to inclusivity and social justice.
The lessons from Barking are particularly relevant today, as the rise of populism continues to threaten democratic values across Europe and beyond. Hodge urges contemporary politicians and activists to foster community connections, prioritize dialogue, and counteract extremist rhetoric with positive, unifying messages. By drawing on the successful tactics employed in Barking, Hodge believes that it is possible to create a formidable resistance against the far-right ideologies that seek to undermine democratic principles. As the political climate evolves, the need for a coordinated and compassionate response to extremism remains more crucial than ever.
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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