PoliticsJOE Podcast Undercover with Britain's neofascists
May 4, 2025
Harry Shukman, a journalist and author specializing in undercover investigations of the far-right, shares gripping insights from his year-long infiltration of Britain First. He discusses the unsettling ties between anti-vaccine sentiments and extremist ideologies. Shukman reflects on the psychological toll of his undercover work and the moral dilemmas faced within these groups. He also explores the normalization of fringe beliefs in mainstream politics and the significant emotional impact of interacting with radicalized individuals.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Deep Undercover in Britain First
- Harry Shukman infiltrated Britain First by gaining trust through a fabricated identity called Chris.
- He practiced answers meticulously to avoid suspicion in the paranoid far-right group.
Far-Right Shift and Impact
- Far-right activism shifted focus post-pandemic from anti-vax to anti-migrant protests targeting asylum seeker accommodations.
- These actions were precursors to violent race riots in multiple UK towns, proving extremist impact.
Living the Stress of Exposure
- Harry feared exposure constantly when someone unexpectedly called his real name.
- Once, he nearly ran into a family member at a far-right event, increasing his anxiety.