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 draws parallels between the current political landscape and her party’s successful battle against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking ahead of the 2010 general election. Hodge emphasizes that the resurgence of extremist ideologies, especially in the wake of the 2024 presidential election in the United States and Donald Trump’s return to the White House, necessitates a strategic response similar to what was executed in Barking. The BNP, known for its xenophobic and nationalist rhetoric, posed a significant threat to the Labour Party in the area, tapping into local discontent and economic anxieties. Hodge recalls how the party mobilized grassroots efforts, engaged with the community, and emphasized a message of inclusivity to counter the BNP’s divisive narrative.
The context of Hodge’s reflections is crucial; the political climate of 2010 was markedly different from today. Social media was not yet a dominant force in shaping public opinion, and the world had not yet experienced the upheavals brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic or the ongoing conflicts in Europe. Hodge points out that the challenges of 2024 are compounded by these factors, making it essential for political parties to adapt their strategies. For instance, the Labour Party’s approach in Barking involved not only addressing local issues but also countering the BNP’s propaganda with facts and positive narratives about diversity and community strength. Hodge believes that these lessons remain relevant as parties across Europe face similar threats from populist movements that exploit societal fears and divisions.
Hodge’s insights serve as a call to action for contemporary political leaders to learn from history. By fostering community engagement, promoting a narrative of unity, and effectively utilizing modern communication tools, parties can mount a robust defense against the rising tide of extremism. As the far right gains traction across Europe, Hodge’s experiences in Barking remind us that proactive and inclusive strategies are vital in safeguarding democratic values and countering the allure of populism that often masquerades as a legitimate political discourse.
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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