Perceived rise in radicalism
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Alongside and at times, part of the rise of single issue politics, there is a perceived rise in radicalism. The UK has seen the rise of far right political support and outside of formal politics, some campaigners such as some factions of animal rights, environmental and anti-abortion activists, have pushed the boundaries of civil disobedience and in some cases have used violent methods. In addition, high profile terrorist attacks have raised public awareness of the threat of terrorism, particularly by those promoting Islamism.
What are the implications?
- Possible re-engagement with formal politics as constituents preferring mainstream parties fear radical parties will claim seats.
- Possible backlash against the democratisation of the media and increased internet regulation as extremist groups use it to voice their opinions.
- Increased regulation of civil life including counter terrorism measures directed at VCOs due to a perceived risk of abuse by terrorists.
- Increase in security and surveillance following high profile terrorist attacks.
- Increased need to build social cohesion to prevent the spread of terrorism, possibly leading to an increase in government policies around this area.
- Attitudes towards immigrants and other minority groups are deteriorating as some groups perceive them to be associated with extremist action.
Moving forward
The perceived rise in radicalism is facilitated by a democratisation of the media which allows multiple voices to be heard but also implies that organisations have less control over their message.
- How can your organisation maintain enough control of its message to ensure that it is not hijacked by (extreme) groups and that it continues to meet your mission and values?
The VCS has an essential role to play in preventing the rise in terrorist activity by promoting social inclusion and building social capital, as well as delivering benefits such as humanitarian relief to people in some of the poorest parts of the world.
- Does your organisation need to take steps to reach marginalised sections of the community?
- Can you work in partnership with organisations working with marginalised communities, to build trust, bridge divides and tackle discrimination in the community?
Want to know more?
The rise of extremism in London
Published by: The Boston Globe
Date: 2009
Format: Web
What is it? A brief opinion column article discussing the rise of radicalism within London as a response to foreign events across the world.
How useful is this? This piece looks at how events such as the conflict in Gaza are acting to mobilise radicalisation within the UK as well as aggravating anti-Islamic and anti-Semitic incidents, mainly by right-wing extremists. It briefly touches on why these changes are occurring, and suggests the real danger will come from the fallout of the economic downturn and the subsequent effect on community relation and cohesion.
The Decline and Rise of Rightwing Extremism in the UK and the US
Published by: Pass the roti (South Asian issue focussed weblog)
Date: 2009
Format: Web
What is it? An interesting and intelligent blog article discussing changing patterns of Rightwing Extremism within the UK and the US.
How useful is this? This piece suggests in paragraph 4 that changes in Rightwing Extremism within Britain have arisen through the incorrect implication by the media of multiculturalism and increased suffering of the white working class, instead of more relevant class based issues. It goes on to examine what is currently happening in the face of the financial crisis, what may change in the near future (including the possible growth of social bases of rightwing extremism) and what needs to be done in order to mitigate this slippery slope of community polarisation and increased rightwing extremist sympathy.
The edge of violence: a radical approach to extremism
Published by: Demos
Date: 2010
Format: PDF
What is it? A report examining the difference between violent and non-violent radicals.
How useful is this? This report summarises a two year project researching what makes people radical, and how different individuals express their radicalism. It's aim is to elucidate the reasoning behind different actions and offer guidelines on how communities and governments can act to reduce violence amongst radical people.
Stronger Together - A new approach to preventing violent extremism
Published by: NLGN (New Local Government Network)
Date: 2009
Format: PDF (1MB)
What is it? A report by the NLGN (a local government and community empowerment focussed think tank) critically assessing the government’s flagship scheme on tackling extremism, but also touching upon possible future trends.
How useful is this? This report is mainly focussed on examining the government’s “Prevent” scheme – suggesting that there should be closer integration to building community cohesion and that all violent extremist ideologies should be targeted, not just Al-Qaeda inspired ideology. Section 2 pages 10,11 provides a brief summary of Prevent, opinion on it’s short comings as well as a brief paragraph discussing current trends in radicalism and extremism, how they may continue into the future and what role the these schemes may play in altering current trends.
Other comments: Details of the government’s Prevent scheme can be found here if desired.
How will this affect your organisation? Have you considered it during your strategic planning? Can you share any interesting relevant links?