What smashed the far right in east London? A playbook that said connect, connect, connect | Margaret Hodge
In a compelling reflection on the rise of far-right movements in Europe, Labour peer Margaret Hodge draws parallels between the current political climate and the battle against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking leading up to the 2010 general election. Hodge emphasizes that, despite a different context—marked by the absence of social media, the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing geopolitical tensions—there are valuable lessons to be gleaned from the Labour Party’s successful campaign to counteract the BNP’s influence. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and nationalist rhetoric, posed a significant threat in Barking, a borough that was facing demographic changes and economic challenges that the party exploited to gain traction.
Hodge recalls how the Labour Party mobilized grassroots efforts to engage the community, counter misinformation, and promote a message of inclusivity and diversity. By focusing on local issues and fostering a sense of belonging among residents, the party was able to diminish the BNP’s appeal. Hodge argues that similar strategies are necessary today as extremist ideologies gain momentum, particularly in the wake of the 2024 U.S. presidential election, which saw the return of Donald Trump to power. She stresses the importance of building coalitions, amplifying positive narratives, and utilizing modern platforms to reach younger, more digitally engaged voters. Hodge believes that by learning from past successes and adapting them to today’s challenges, communities can effectively resist the allure of populism that often disguises itself as extremism.
As Europe faces renewed threats from far-right groups, Hodge’s insights serve as a timely reminder of the power of community engagement and proactive political strategy. The lessons learned from Barking in 2010 underscore the necessity of addressing the root causes of discontent and fostering a political environment that prioritizes unity over division. As we navigate the complexities of today’s political landscape, Hodge’s reflections encourage a renewed commitment to democratic values and social cohesion, essential for countering the rise of extremism in all its forms.
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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