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 fight against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking prior to the 2010 general election, drawing parallels to today’s resurgent far-right movements across Europe. Hodge argues that the lessons learned from that pivotal moment can inform current efforts to combat extremist ideologies, particularly as the political landscape shifts with the re-emergence of figures like Donald Trump. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and anti-immigrant rhetoric, posed a significant threat to Labour’s hold on Barking, a constituency that was becoming increasingly diverse. Hodge highlights the importance of grassroots campaigning and community engagement, which ultimately led to the decisive defeat of the BNP in the area.
The context in which Hodge fought the BNP was markedly different from today’s challenges. In 2010, social media was not the dominant force it is now, and the political discourse was less fragmented. The landscape has since been transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions in Europe, and a growing skepticism towards established political norms. Hodge emphasizes that while the tactics may need to evolve, the core principles of standing firm against hate and mobilizing community support remain vital. She calls for a renewed commitment to inclusivity and dialogue, underscoring that combating extremism requires more than just political opposition; it necessitates building resilient communities that can withstand divisive narratives.
Hodge’s insights serve as a rallying cry for those concerned about the rise of populism and extremism today. By reflecting on the successful strategies employed in Barking, she advocates for a proactive approach that fosters unity and counters the allure of far-right rhetoric. As Europe faces a potential resurgence of extremist ideologies, the lessons from Barking offer a roadmap for contemporary political movements seeking to safeguard democratic values and promote social cohesion.
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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