London, UK – A prominent think tank criticized the United Kingdom’s handling of extremist violence, asserting that far-right attacks aren’t met with the same severity as those attributed to Islamist extremism. According to the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), acts of violence from right-wing groups are often dismissed as simple acts of hooliganism by politicians, law enforcement, and security services, a stark contrast to the swift categorization of similar Islamist actions as terrorism.
This criticism comes in the backdrop of a series of riots targeting asylum hotels and mosques across England and Northern Ireland, which researchers link to a surge in neo-Nazi and extreme-right group activities. Moreover, the discourse surrounding these events has included controversial claims from figures like Elon Musk and Nigel Farage, who argue that the government, led by Keir Starmer, is imposing a “two-tier” criminal justice system favoring certain demographic groups over others.
RUSI’s research emphasizes the disparate responses to different forms of extremism, suggesting a deep-rooted institutional bias that has historically undermined the severity and organized nature of far-right threats. This inconsistency reportedly hinders both the political will and legal precedents needed to address these threats adequately.
An article co-authored by RUSI’s interim director of the terrorism and conflict research group, Dr. Jessica White, along with research fellows, argues for a redefinition in recognizing the threat from far-right violence. They advocate for serious incidents of far-right violence to be classified as terrorism, aligning with a more just legal strategy that equitably prosecutes all forms of extremism.
The recent civil unrest should be viewed as part of a broader trend of violence linked to far-right ideologies, not only in the UK but across Europe. Instances like the 2018 riots in Chemnitz, Germany, and the 2023 Dublin riots, both sparked by incidents that fueled anti-immigrant sentiments, demonstrate a recurring pattern of exploitation by far-right groups to incite violence against migrants and refugees.
RUSI, maintaining robust ties within the defense and security communities, brings significant credibility to its claims. Established in 1831 by the Duke of Wellington, it stands as the world’s oldest think tank, dedicated to enhancing international defense and security through rigorous research and debate.
The discussion of a “two-tier” approach also surfaced around the handling of pro-Palestinian protests in the UK, with figures like the former immigration minister Robert Jenrick criticizing what he perceived as biased policing favoring specific groups.
This evolving dialogue about extremism, justice, and societal response underscores the need for an inclusive and equitable approach in addressing all forms of violence, ensuring public safety and trust in the institutions designed to protect it. As the debate continues, it becomes increasingly clear that addressing these disparities is not only a matter of legal necessity but also of social urgency.