- The UK will now classify ‘extreme misogyny’ as extremism under new anti-radicalisation measures.
- Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has launched a review of the counter-extremism strategy to address ideological threats, including misogyny, “Islamist,” and far-right extremism.
“Extreme misogyny” will now be recognised as a form of extremism under newly proposed government measures aimed at “addressing online radicalisation.” Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has vowed to intensify efforts against those who “push harmful and hateful beliefs” and to “kickstart” a renewed strategy for combating extremism.
Ms. Cooper states that she has commissioned a comprehensive review of Britain’s counter-extremism strategy, with a specific focus on “curbing the radicalisation of young men online.” This review will scrutinise “hatred towards women” as one of the ideologies under consideration, alongside “Islamist” and far-right beliefs, among others, she said. She further clarified that the objective of this initiative is to deliver a thorough analysis and recommendations on how to “tackle the threat posed by extremist ideologies.”
According to the government, the initiative will span the entire ideological spectrum, addressing “gaps in the current system” that leave the nation vulnerable to activities that incite violence or undermine democratic principles.
Following the riots that erupted across England in the wake of the stabbing of three girls in Southport, 460 individuals had appeared in magistrates’ courts by the end of Thursday in connection with the unrest.
It is believed that at least 72 individuals under the age of 18 have been charged. Additionally, several individuals have faced charges related to the dissemination of material that contributed to the riots, including publishing content that incited racial hatred or sending grossly offensive messages.
Ms. Cooper stated, “For too long, governments have failed to address the rise in extremism, both online and on our streets, and we’ve seen the number of young people radicalised online grow.”
“Hateful incitement of all kinds fractures and frays the very fabric of our communities and our democracy. Action against extremism has been badly hollowed out in recent years, just when it should have been needed most.”
“That’s why I have directed the Home Office to conduct a rapid analytical sprint on extremism, to map and monitor extremist trends, to understand the evidence about what works to disrupt and divert people away from extremist views, and to identify any gaps in existing policy which need to be addressed to crack down on those pushing harmful and hateful beliefs and violence. That work will underpin a new strategic approach to countering extremism from government, working closely with communities to build consensus and impetus for our plans.”
The Home Secretary has criticised the previous administration for the absence of a counter-extremism strategy since 2015, arguing that the lack of a comprehensive approach or practical plans has compromised community safety.
The new strategy is intended to fulfill the government’s manifesto commitment to preventing individuals from being drawn towards hateful ideologies.
The Home Office has indicated that the initiative will examine the rise of both “Islamist” and far-right extremism in the UK, as well as broader ideological trends, including “extreme misogyny” and other beliefs that align with a broader fixation on violence. It will also explore the causes and processes of radicalisation among young people, particularly the spread of dangerous material online.
Billions of Muslims globally, denounce the UK government’s use of the terms “Islamist” and “Islamism.” They assert unequivocally that radicalisation and terrorism are completely divorced of Islam.
