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 strategic battle against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking ahead of the 2010 general election, drawing parallels to the current rise of far-right movements across Europe. As the political landscape shifts with the re-emergence of figures like Donald Trump, Hodge emphasizes the importance of learning from past experiences to combat extremism disguised as populism. In Barking, the Labour Party faced a formidable challenge from the BNP, which had gained traction by exploiting local grievances and social divisions. Hodge highlights that the party’s success in this context was not just about countering the BNP’s policies but also about fostering community solidarity and addressing the underlying issues that fueled support for extremist ideologies.
The strategies employed in Barking included grassroots campaigning, engaging with local communities, and promoting a message of inclusivity and hope. Hodge recalls how Labour activists worked tirelessly to connect with constituents, addressing their concerns while simultaneously countering the divisive rhetoric of the BNP. One key aspect of their approach was to emphasize the importance of a cohesive community, showcasing the benefits of diversity and the contributions of immigrants. This proactive stance not only helped to diminish the BNP’s influence but also reinforced the Labour Party’s commitment to social justice and equality. Hodge’s insights serve as a timely reminder that, despite the different context today—with the prevalence of social media, the impact of the pandemic, and geopolitical tensions—effective counter-strategies against far-right extremism must remain rooted in community engagement and a clear, positive vision for the future.
As Hodge reflects on these lessons, she urges contemporary political leaders to recognize the urgency of addressing the factors that enable far-right ideologies to flourish. By learning from the past, Hodge believes that it is possible to forge a united front against the rising tide of extremism, ensuring that democratic values and social cohesion prevail. In a world increasingly challenged by populist narratives, the experiences from Barking offer a blueprint for how to confront and ultimately overcome the threats posed by the far right.
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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