The United Kingdom government’s new definition of “extremism,” aimed at addressing increasing Islamophobia and anti-Semitism following Israel’s conflict in Gaza, has sparked intense debate across the political spectrum. Critics from all sides argue that it will undermine freedom of speech and civil liberties.
Last month, Communities Secretary Michael Gove named several UK-based far-right organizations, including the neo-Nazi British National Socialist Movement and the Patriotic Alternative. He stated that these organizations will be held to account to assess if they meet the government’s definition of extremism, and appropriate action will be taken as necessary.
Since October 7, amidst increased domestic tensions, he identified several prominent groups advocating for the civil rights of Muslims. These include the Muslim Council of Britain, the Muslim Association of Britain (which he referred to as the UK affiliate of the Muslim Brotherhood), Cage, and Muslim Engagement and Development (MEND).
The fact that Muslim organizations are immediately labeled as [‘extremist’] indicates the true intentions behind this piece of legislation,” said Imran Khan QC. He is the British lawyer who gained fame for representing the family of Stephen Lawrence. Lawrence was murdered in a racist attack in 1993, which exposed institutional racism within the Metropolitan Police.
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Organizations categorized as “extreme” under the new definition will be blacklisted, deemed ineligible for government funding, and banned from meeting with ministers.
“What defines ‘extreme views’?” asked Khan, who has worked on numerous “extremism” and “terrorism” cases after the July 2005 bombings in London and represented surviving families of the Grenfell Tower disaster.
The classic example often cited is about [Nelson] Mandela being a freedom fighter in one instance and a terrorist in another,” this is a famouse story, everyone knows.
“It’s based on prejudice, Islamophobia, racism, and it will be those sections of society who are unable to protect themselves that will be subject to further prosecution and persecution.
Referring to the Al Jazeera report
