Michael Gove asserts that an updated extremism definition in the UK will effectively thwart attempts to undermine democracy and infringe upon fundamental rights. Formulated following the

October 7 attacks in Israel, the Communities Secretary emphasizes that this refined definition aims to prevent extremist organizations and individuals from gaining legitimacy or influence through interactions with the government.

Expected to be presented in the Commons, Gove anticipates naming organizations deemed detrimental to UK democracy. Ministers and civil servants could face restrictions from engaging with or financially supporting entities that pose a threat to the nation's liberal parliamentary system.

The definition stipulates extremism as the promotion of ideologies rooted in violence, hatred, or intolerance, with the goal of negating fundamental rights, subverting democracy, or fostering an environment conducive to such endeavors. Government departments will utilize this framework, alongside engagement principles, to ensure they do not inadvertently endorse extremist agendas.

While non-statutory, the definition governs governmental operations without altering existing criminal law. Gove underscores the importance of protecting the UK's multicultural democracy from extremist challenges, particularly from factions seeking to sow division and suppress rights. He identifies the pervasive influence of extremist ideologies, exacerbated by recent attacks, as a significant threat to national security and democratic values.

Independent Adviser Lord Walney commends the inclusive scope of the definition, encompassing those who undermine liberal democracy without resorting to direct violence. Professor Ian Acheson, Senior Advisor at the Counter Extremism Project, supports the measures as essential in combatting violent extremism and preserving the integrity of British democracy against divisive forces. Photo by Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Wikimedia commons.