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 revisits the party’s successful campaign against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking leading up to the 2010 general election, drawing parallels to the current rise of far-right movements across Europe. Hodge emphasizes that while the political landscape has evolved significantly since 2010—marked by the advent of social media, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical tensions—the strategies employed in Barking can still provide valuable insights for combating contemporary extremism.
In 2010, the BNP had gained traction in Barking, capitalizing on economic anxieties and public discontent. Hodge recalls how the Labour Party mobilized local communities, emphasizing unity and resilience against divisive rhetoric. By focusing on grassroots engagement, the party was able to counteract the BNP’s message of fear and hatred. Hodge highlights the importance of community dialogue and the need to address the genuine concerns of constituents, rather than dismissing them outright. This approach not only helped to dispel the BNP’s influence but also fostered a sense of belonging and shared purpose among Barking residents.
As Hodge warns of the current climate, where far-right ideologies are gaining momentum, she advocates for a renewed commitment to the principles of inclusivity and solidarity. Drawing on her experiences, she urges political leaders to learn from the past and adapt their strategies to the present context. With the rise of social media amplifying extremist messages, Hodge stresses the need for proactive engagement and counter-narratives that resonate with the electorate. By emphasizing the importance of community involvement and addressing the root causes of discontent, Hodge believes that the lessons learned from Barking can guide efforts to confront the challenges posed by contemporary populism and 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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