In recent months, the alarming surge in far-right violent activities across English towns has sent shockwaves through our communities. These acts of hatred and division are not just isolated incidents; they are symptoms of deeper societal fractures—fractures that, if left unchecked, threaten the very fabric of our nation. At Action West London (AWL), we see these events as a clarion call to strengthen civil society, to fortify the public realm, and to ensure that the third sector remains vibrant and resilient. Only through a united, compassionate, and inclusive approach can we hope to confront and overcome the challenges posed by our increasingly unequal society.
The Rise of Far-Right Violence: A Symptom of Deeper Issues
The recent wave of far-right violence is deeply troubling, but it is not surprising. These actions are rooted in fear, anger, and a profound sense of disenfranchisement felt by many in our society. They are the byproducts of a system that has left too many behind—a system where economic inequality, social alienation, and political disillusionment have created fertile ground for extremism to take root.
At AWL, we work with those who are often on the margins of society—the hardest-to-help, those furthest from the labour market, and predominantly from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities. We see firsthand the impacts of economic exclusion and social isolation. When people feel that they have no stake in society, when they are left out of the economic and social contract, the allure of extremist ideologies can grow stronger.
The Role of Civil Society in Countering Extremism
Civil society—comprising charities, community groups, and voluntary organizations like AWL—plays a critical role in countering this dangerous trend. We are the front line in the battle against hate, providing the support and services that help people build better lives and stronger communities. But for civil society to be effective, it must be robust, well-supported, and integrated into the broader public realm.
The far-right thrives in the vacuum left by a weakened civil society. When communities feel abandoned, when public services are stripped to the bone, and when the social safety net is frayed, extremists find fertile ground to sow their seeds of division. To combat this, we must ensure that civil society is empowered to meet the needs of those who are most vulnerable, to provide hope where there is despair, and to foster unity where there is division.
Ensuring a Healthy and Vibrant Public Realm
A healthy public realm is the bedrock of a just society. It is where citizens come together to engage in dialogue, to support one another, and to build a shared future. But in recent years, we have seen a gradual erosion of this space. Cuts to public services, the decline of community centers, and the loss of local forums for civic engagement have all contributed to a weakening of the public realm.
For AWL, the public realm is not just a physical space—it is the space where our work happens, where lives are changed, and where communities are built. It is where we help people gain the skills and confidence they need to enter the workforce, where we provide a bridge between those furthest from the labour market and the opportunities that can transform their lives.
But we cannot do this alone. A vibrant public realm requires investment—both financial and political. It requires a commitment from all levels of government to support the third sector, to prioritize social cohesion, and to address the root causes of inequality and exclusion.
Building a United Response to Inequality
The rise of far-right violence is a stark reminder of the dangers of an unequal society. Inequality breeds resentment, and resentment can quickly turn into hatred. But we have the power to change this. By investing in civil society, by strengthening the public realm, and by ensuring that the third sector is healthy and vibrant, we can build a more inclusive, just, and united society.
At AWL, we are committed to this vision. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, has the right to feel safe, valued, and included. We believe that the best way to counter hate is through hope—hope that is grounded in real opportunities, in strong communities, and in a society that truly values every one of its members.
A Call to Action
Now is the time for action. We must stand together to reject the forces of division and hate. We must work to strengthen civil society, to invest in the public realm, and to support the third sector in its vital work. This is not just a fight for the soul of our towns and cities; it is a fight for the future of our country.
At AWL, we will continue to do our part—providing employability services, fostering social cohesion, and advocating for a more just and equal society. But we cannot do it alone. We need the support of our partners, funders, and the wider community. Together, we can build a future where everyone has a stake in society, where no one is left behind, and where the forces of hate are overwhelmed by the power of hope, unity, and compassion.
This is our mission. This is our call to action. Let us answer it with the determination and resolve that these challenging times demand.