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 recounted the strategic efforts employed by her party to combat the British National Party (BNP) in Barking during the lead-up to the 2010 general election. As far-right movements gain momentum across Europe, particularly in the wake of the 2024 presidential election and Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Hodge emphasizes the importance of revisiting the tactics that proved successful in Barking. At that time, the BNP was gaining traction, exploiting local grievances and fears to garner support. Hodge highlights how the Labour Party mobilized grassroots activism, engaged with the community, and countered the BNP’s divisive rhetoric by promoting a message of inclusivity and solidarity.
The landscape in 2010 was markedly different from today; social media was not yet a dominant force in political discourse, and the public had not yet experienced the upheaval of a global pandemic or the ongoing conflicts in Europe. Hodge points out that while the context has changed, the fundamental strategies for addressing the rise of extremism remain relevant. She recalls how the Labour Party focused on building relationships with local residents, addressing their concerns, and presenting a positive vision for the future. This grassroots approach not only helped to dismantle the BNP’s support in Barking but also fostered a sense of community resilience against the tide of far-right populism.
Hodge’s reflections serve as a timely reminder that combating extremism requires more than just political rhetoric; it necessitates active engagement with communities and a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that fuel division. As the far right continues to rise, the lessons learned from Barking in 2010 could provide valuable insights for contemporary political movements seeking to promote unity and counteract the growing influence of extremist ideologies. By fostering dialogue, understanding, and a shared vision for a more inclusive society, political leaders can work towards dismantling the narratives that empower far-right groups and ensure that democratic values prevail.
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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