The decision stems from the government’s decision to update the previous definition, which was part of the 2011 counter-terrorism strategy known as Prevent. The surge in antisemitic and anti-Muslim hate crimes following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel also prompted the need for this revision.
What does the new definition say?
The updated definition characterizes extremism as the promotion of ideologies rooted in violence, hatred or intolerance, with aims to undermine fundamental rights and freedoms, challenge the UK’s democratic system or create an environment conducive to such goals.
Impartial officials will conduct thorough assessments in the coming weeks to identify groups meeting this definition. Once labeled extremist, these groups will be ineligible for government funding or support. Although they can seek judicial review, the government hopes the designation will lead the public and other entities to disengage from them.
Government’s response to criticism
Despite concerns raised by critics, including fears of stifling free speech or unfairly targeting certain viewpoints, the government maintains that the new definition aims to target groups promoting hateful ideologies without impeding peaceful expression.
The introduction of this definition follows Sunak’s warning about an increase in extremist activity, particularly evident during pro-Palestinian protests in London.
The government stressed that the new definition is narrower and more precise than its predecessor, designed to capture only the most concerning activities while preserving space for peaceful beliefs.