Reflections on the Recent Far-Right Protests in the U.K. and the Growing Threat of Extremism

Amina A⚖️

Masters of Law LLM Student✨ | Legal Caseworker Pro Bono | Lib Dem Diversity Officer | Black Police Association Executive Board | Ex-Met Police Leadership & Analyst🚨| Founder of The Courage Chronicles🗞️ | Advocate💯

August 7, 2024

The recent far-right protests across the U.K., particularly the English Defence League (EDL) protests, have raised significant concerns about rising extremism in our societies. With one of these protests taking place just a short distance from my home, I have witnessed firsthand how disorder has already begun to affect our local town. It's disheartening to see that being visibly non-white or foreign-looking has become a source of danger, making many feel unsafe in their own communities.

Having worked as an analyst in counter-terrorism policing, I’ve seen how the threat landscape has evolved, especially concerning right-wing extremism. My analysis highlighted that the severity of this threat has been steadily increasing, with troubling connections to ideologies such as Incel, which thrive in online spaces. Vulnerable individuals, particularly young people, are being radicalised through subtle shifts in attitudes that often start with anti-immigration sentiment or prejudice against minority groups.

It’s crucial to understand that all forms of extremism, terrorism, and hate-fueled attacks should be treated equally and proportionally. These extremist attacks often begin with seemingly innocuous opinions, laying the groundwork for a dangerous cycle of intolerance. Once individuals dehumanise others, it becomes easier to justify violent acts.

In responding to these challenges, law enforcement and the judicial system must find a delicate balance. While understanding communities and employing early intervention tactics are vital, there are times when safeguarding must take precedence. In situations where the safety of others is at risk and an individual's ideology and core beliefs are too hardened for preventive intervention, more stringent actions—such as arrests and charges—become necessary.

Psychological research supports the notion that individuals who reach a certain age in adulthood are less likely to change their attitudes and behaviors, as their mindsets become more entrenched. This highlights the importance of addressing extremist views early on, particularly among younger individuals, while also recognising that some adults may require a firmer approach due to their deeply rooted beliefs.

To effectively counter extremism, we must employ a variety of strategies:

1. Community Building: Fostering strong, inclusive communities can significantly reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies.

2. Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing warning signs early can prevent radicalisation.

3. Engaging with Adults Over a Certain Age: For those with hardened beliefs, a more stringent pursuit tactic may be required to disrupt their ideologies.

4. Empowering Young People: Supporting children and young adults in community activities helps build resilience and a sense of belonging.

5. Celebrating Empathy and Compassion: Promoting empathy as a strength can inspire positive change.

Radicalisation is a complex process influenced by various psychological factors. Here are some common contributors:

1. Identity Crisis: Individuals who struggle with their sense of identity may seek belonging in extremist groups that offer a clear and defined identity, often based on ideology, ethnicity, or religion.

2. Sense of Alienation: Feelings of isolation or marginalisation, whether socially, economically, or politically, can push individuals towards radical ideologies as they search for a community where they feel accepted and valued.

3. Need for Significance: Many individuals are motivated by a desire to feel important or to make a meaningful impact. Extremist groups often exploit this need by offering a sense of purpose and a mission.

4. Exposure to Violence: Witnessing or experiencing violence, whether in personal lives or through media, can desensitise individuals and make extremist views more acceptable.

5. Cognitive Closure: Some people may have a strong need for certainty and clear answers to complex issues. Extremist ideologies often provide simplistic explanations for complicated social and political problems, appealing to those seeking clarity.

6. Group Dynamics: The influence of peer pressure and the desire for group loyalty can lead individuals to adopt radical views. Groupthink can suppress dissenting opinions and reinforce extreme beliefs.

7. Psychological Grievances: Feelings of injustice, humiliation, or perceived victimisation can fuel radicalisation. Individuals may believe that their beliefs or communities are under threat, leading them to adopt extremist views as a form of resistance.

8. Moral Engagement: Extremist ideologies often frame their actions as morally justified, creating a narrative where violence is seen as a necessary means to an end. This moral framing can desensitise individuals to the consequences of their actions.

9. Cognitive Dissonance: Individuals may experience discomfort from holding conflicting beliefs or values. Joining an extremist group can help resolve this dissonance by aligning their beliefs with those of the group.

10. Online Radicalisation: The internet provides a platform for extremist ideologies to spread. Social media and online forums can create echo chambers where individuals are exposed to radical views without opposing perspectives.

As we navigate these challenging times, it’s vital to engage in open dialogues and implement these strategies. We must challenge extremist ideologies at their roots and ensure that we provide guidance to those vulnerable to such influences. By promoting a culture of understanding and treating all forms of extremism with the seriousness they deserve, we can break the cycle of hate and intolerance, paving the way for a more harmonious future.

Useful References:

Khalil, J. & Zeuthen, M. (2017). The Role of Alienation in Radicalization. Behavioral Sciences of Terrorism and Political Aggression

Borum, R. (2011). Radicalization: Causes and Processes. Psychology of Terrorism

Kruglanski, A. W., Gelfand, M. J., Hart, S., & Keller, C. (2013). A Theory of Radicalization: A Motivational Perspective.