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 recounts her party’s strategic response to the British National Party (BNP) in Barking ahead of the 2010 general election. Hodge emphasizes that the current political landscape, influenced by the resurgence of figures like Donald Trump and the broader populist wave, presents both challenges and opportunities for countering extremism. Drawing parallels between the past and present, she argues that the lessons learned from Barking can be instrumental in addressing today’s far-right resurgence.
In 2010, the BNP was gaining traction in Barking, capitalizing on public discontent and socio-economic issues. Hodge highlights the importance of grassroots activism, community engagement, and a proactive political strategy that directly addressed voters’ concerns. The Labour Party’s campaign focused on uniting diverse communities and promoting a message of inclusivity, ultimately leading to the defeat of the BNP’s candidates. Unlike the relatively low-impact social media landscape of the time, today’s political discourse is heavily influenced by digital platforms, requiring new tactics to combat misinformation and extremist narratives. Hodge stresses that while the context has shifted dramatically—with the pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and a fractured international order—the core principles of community solidarity and responsive governance remain vital.
As Europe grapples with the implications of rising extremism, Hodge’s insights serve as a reminder that effective political action must evolve while staying rooted in the community. By fostering dialogue and building coalitions, political parties can counter the allure of populism that often disguises itself as a solution to complex societal issues. The lessons from Barking underscore the necessity for vigilance, engagement, and a commitment to democratic values in the face of challenges, reminding us that the fight against extremism is not just a political battle but a societal imperative.
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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