What smashed the far right in east London? A playbook that said connect, connect, connect | Margaret Hodge
In a recent reflection on the Labour Party’s successful campaign against the British National Party (BNP) in Barking prior to the 2010 general election, Labour peer Margaret Hodge emphasizes the importance of learning from past struggles against far-right extremism, especially as such movements gain traction across Europe once again. Hodge draws parallels between the political climate of 2010 and today, noting that the rise of right-wing populism, particularly in the wake of Donald Trump’s return to the White House, necessitates a strategic response to combat similar threats. She argues that the lessons learned from the Barking experience can inform current efforts to counteract extremist ideologies that seek to undermine democratic values and social cohesion.
In 2010, the BNP was gaining ground in Barking, a constituency where its candidates were gaining visibility and support. Hodge recalls how the Labour Party mobilized the community, focusing on grassroots engagement and emphasizing the importance of inclusive politics. They worked tirelessly to build alliances with local organizations and engaged directly with constituents to counter the BNP’s divisive rhetoric. This approach not only galvanized Labour’s base but also appealed to undecided voters who were disillusioned with traditional politics. Hodge highlights that the campaign was not just about defeating the BNP at the polls; it was about reclaiming the narrative and reinforcing the values of diversity and community solidarity.
Today, the context has shifted dramatically, with the proliferation of social media, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and ongoing geopolitical tensions reshaping public discourse. Hodge acknowledges that while the tools and tactics may have evolved, the fundamental principles of community engagement and proactive messaging remain crucial. She advocates for a renewed commitment to addressing the root causes of discontent that fuel far-right sentiments, such as economic inequality and social fragmentation. By drawing on the successful strategies from Barking, Hodge believes that political leaders can effectively mobilize against the current wave of extremism, fostering a more inclusive and resilient society in the face of rising populist challenges.
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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