At the National Centre for Diversity, we are committed to helping organisations live by the values of Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE). These are not abstract ideals; they are the foundations of a society in which everyone can thrive.
Yet across the UK, we are witnessing a resurgence of far-right ideology. This is not just a political movement—it is a social challenge that undermines dignity, destabilises communities, and threatens the progress we have made together. If we are serious about stemming this tide, we must act with clarity, courage, and compassion.
Tackling Inequality at its Roots
The far right feeds on fear, frustration, and inequality. When people feel excluded from economic opportunities, denied fair treatment, or left behind in their communities, they become more vulnerable to divisive messages.
- Investment in education, skills, and lifelong learning is vital to give people a stake in the future.
- Tackling poverty and insecure work reduces the breeding ground for resentment.
- Ensuring fairness in housing, healthcare, and public services helps create confidence that society works for everyone—not just a privileged few.
When people feel secure and supported, extremist narratives lose their appeal.
Building Respectful Public Discourse
Respect is central to FREDIE, yet our public spaces—both physical and digital—are increasingly dominated by toxic rhetoric. To stop the spread of far-right ideologies, we must:
- Challenge inflammatory language wherever it appears, especially in mainstream politics and media.
- Promote respectful debate and listening, even when we disagree.
- Equip young people and adults alike with critical media literacy skills so they can recognise misinformation and manipulation.
A society that values respect does not allow hatred to go unchallenged.
Championing Equality and Representation
The far right thrives on exclusion—by telling people that difference is dangerous, that equality is a zero-sum game. We must offer a better story:
- Workplaces, schools, and communities must model representation at every level so that everyone sees themselves reflected in positions of influence.
- Organisations must adopt policies that don’t just comply with the law, but actively advance equality of opportunity.
- Celebrating the contributions of diverse groups builds resilience against divisive narratives.
Equality is not about favouring some over others; it is about ensuring everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
Strengthening Diversity and Inclusion in Everyday Life
Diversity must be seen as an asset, not a threat. Inclusion must move from aspiration to lived experience. That means:
- Creating workplaces and communities where differences are not just tolerated but valued.
- Making sure people from all backgrounds feel a true sense of belonging.
- Providing safe spaces where people can share experiences and bridge divides.
When inclusion is real, far-right ideologies—which depend on “us vs them” thinking—lose their power.
Demanding Leadership from Government
Ultimately, the responsibility to stem the tide of the far right cannot rest only with communities, schools, or workplaces. It must also come from the very top of government. We therefore call on the Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and his Cabinet to show bold and consistent leadership.
We ask:
- What concrete actions is the Government taking to prevent the growth of far-right movements in the UK?
- How are ministers ensuring that equality, diversity, and inclusion are not sidelined but placed at the heart of national policy?
- What is the long-term plan to make sure every community feels heard, valued, and protected from the divisive politics of hate?
Words alone will not be enough. The UK needs visible, accountable leadership that demonstrates—through law, policy, and example—that extremism has no place in our society.
Engaging Everyone in the Conversation
Finally, we must remember the “E” in FREDIE: Engagement. Stemming the tide of the far right cannot be the job of one sector, one movement, or one community. It requires us all:
- Employers, educators, faith groups, and civic organisations working hand in hand.
- Local leaders engaging directly with those who feel unheard.
- National voices setting a tone that invites people in, rather than shutting them out.
True engagement means meeting people where they are, listening to their concerns, and involving them in shaping solutions.
A Shared Future
Stopping the far right is not simply about opposing an ideology—it is about building a society where that ideology cannot take root. That requires sustained commitment to Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement.
The far right offers fear; we must offer hope.
They divide; we must unite.
They scapegoat; we must show solidarity.
At the National Centre for Diversity, we believe the future of the UK depends on our ability to live by these values—not just in principle, but in practice, every day.
