What smashed the far right in east London? A playbook that said connect, connect, connect | Margaret Hodge
In a recent reflection on the Labour Party’s successful campaign against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking before the 2010 general election, Labour peer Margaret Hodge emphasizes the importance of learning from past battles against far-right extremism, especially as similar movements gain traction across Europe today. Hodge draws parallels between the political climate of 2010 and the current resurgence of far-right ideologies, particularly in light of the recent political shifts following the 2024 presidential election in the United States and the potential return of Donald Trump to the White House. She argues that, despite the differences in context—such as the absence of social media, the impact of a global pandemic, and ongoing conflicts in Europe—the strategies employed in Barking can offer valuable insights for contemporary political landscapes.
In 2010, the BNP was making significant inroads in Barking, exploiting economic anxieties and social divisions to gain support. Hodge recounts how the Labour Party mobilized grassroots efforts, engaged with local communities, and emphasized the importance of inclusivity and diversity to counteract the BNP’s divisive narrative. By addressing the concerns of residents directly and showcasing the positive contributions of immigrants, the Labour Party was able to not only defeat the BNP in the election but also to foster a sense of community resilience against extremist ideologies. Hodge’s reflections serve as a reminder that proactive engagement, clear communication, and a commitment to shared values are essential in the fight against the far right, especially in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly through digital platforms.
As Europe faces a renewed threat from far-right populism, Hodge’s insights highlight the need for political parties to learn from past successes and adapt their strategies to current realities. The lessons from Barking underscore the importance of solidarity, community involvement, and a proactive approach to addressing the root causes of extremism. By drawing on historical experiences, political leaders can develop effective responses to the challenges posed by far-right movements, ensuring that the values of democracy and inclusion prevail in the face of rising extremism.
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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