What smashed the far right in east London? A playbook that said connect, connect, connect | Margaret Hodge
In a reflective piece, Labour peer Margaret Hodge draws parallels between the rise of the far-right British National Party (BNP) in Barking during the 2010 general election and today’s resurging extremism across Europe, particularly in light of Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Hodge recalls how her party confronted the BNP’s influence, which had gained traction by exploiting local grievances and fostering division. The BNP’s success in Barking was alarming, as it threatened to undermine the fabric of the community. Hodge emphasizes that while the circumstances of 2010 differ significantly from today—marked by the absence of social media, the pandemic’s impact, and geopolitical tensions—there are crucial lessons to be learned in combating extremist ideologies.
Hodge details the strategies employed by the Labour party to counter the BNP’s narrative and mobilize the community. Key to their success was the establishment of a robust grassroots campaign that focused on engaging with local residents, addressing their concerns, and promoting a message of inclusivity and unity. The party organized door-to-door canvassing, community meetings, and outreach programs to counteract the BNP’s divisive rhetoric. Hodge highlights the importance of building coalitions across different demographic groups, emphasizing that a united front is essential in resisting the allure of populism that often masquerades as a solution to societal issues. By fostering dialogue and understanding, the Labour party was able to diminish the BNP’s appeal, ultimately leading to a significant electoral defeat for the far-right group.
As Hodge reflects on these past strategies, she urges contemporary leaders to remain vigilant against the rise of extremism. With the political landscape constantly evolving, she argues that it is vital to adapt tactics to the current context. The lessons learned from Barking serve as a reminder that community engagement, effective communication, and a commitment to inclusivity are fundamental in the fight against extremism. In a time when populist sentiments are gaining momentum, Hodge’s insights provide a beacon of hope and a call to action for those seeking to uphold democratic values and resist the encroachment of far-right ideologies.
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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