The British government has sparked controversy with its new definition of extremism, which aims to cut ties or funding to groups deemed to have crossed the line. Critics fear that this move could curtail campaigners’ rights and curb free speech.
Senior cabinet minister Michael Gove defended the new definition, stating that it is necessary to protect democratic values by identifying the dangers posed by extremism. However, advocacy groups and legal experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact on civil liberties.
The Church of England also weighed in on the issue, with leaders warning that the new definition could inadvertently threaten freedom of speech, the right to worship, and peaceful protest. They also raised concerns about the disproportionate targeting of Muslim communities.
Under the new plan, extremism is defined as the promotion of an ideology based on violence, hatred, or intolerance that aims to undermine the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy. The government stated that the new definition is not statutory but will inform decisions on government engagement and funding.
Critics argue that the broad definition of extremism could lead to the blacklisting of groups and individuals, potentially infringing on their freedoms and reputations. Amnesty International’s chief executive described the plan as a “dangerously sweeping approach” that could erode human rights.
While the government insists that the plan is not about silencing those with peaceful beliefs and will not affect free speech, concerns remain about the potential impact on civil liberties. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for unity to combat extremism, citing a rise in extremist disruption and criminality since recent attacks in Israel.
The new definition updates the government’s anti-extremism strategy known as Prevent, which includes vocal or active opposition to fundamental British values. The government is expected to announce a list of groups deemed to have fallen foul of the new definition in the coming weeks.
