Intelligence Squared Is Britain in Denial About the Far Right? With Harry Shukman
Jun 17, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Harry Shukman, a journalist and researcher at HOPE not hate, shares insights from his undercover investigation into Britain's far right. He reveals the normalization of extremist ideologies like eugenics and Holocaust denial, often intertwined with big tech and media. The conversation explores the challenges of infiltrating these groups and the emotional struggles of those seeking belonging. Shukman’s revelations illuminate the dangerous dynamics beneath the surface of British society, prompting a broader reflection on extremism.
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Undercover in Far-Right Groups
- Harry Shukman spent over a year undercover infiltrating British far-right groups as 'Chris', a bland strategy consultant.
- This long-term immersion revealed deeper truths hidden from mainstream journalists and fostered trust within these groups.
Basket Weavers' Secret Strategy
- The Basket Weavers is a large, young far-right community group disguised as a harmless social club to avoid scrutiny.
- They focus on in-person meetups rather than online activity to evade detection while nurturing extremist views.
Loneliness Fuels Far-Right Appeal
- Many far-right members join out of loneliness and desire for community but face internal hierarchy and pressure to become more extreme.
- They view themselves as vanguards fighting to save Western civilization, which motivates their activism.