Extremism embodies a fervent adherence to ideologies or beliefs, often marked by an uncompromising and radical stance. It manifests across various domains, including political, religious, or social spheres, where individuals or groups espouse extreme views, often at the expense of tolerance, rational discourse, and peaceful coexistence.
Who’s Responsible
Whataretheydoing?
The UK Government have published a new definition of extremism which adds to the tools to tackle this ever-evolving threat. This is in line with the first duty of government which to keep citizens safe and our country secure. The definition states that: Extremism is the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance, that aims to: 1. negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; or 2. undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or 3. intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve the results in (1) or (2).
Whatcanyoudo?
To tackle extremism, fostering empathy, promoting critical thinking, and engaging in constructive dialogue are essential. Education, community outreach, and addressing root causes of grievances also play pivotal roles in fostering resilience against extremism.
The first Member of the Welsh Youth Parliament representing Race Council Cymru. Angel made impactful contributions to call for Black and People of Colour’s histories to be part of Wales’s school curriculum.
Marcus’s highest profile impact was influencing the UK Government to extend free school meals for children. He also raised the profile of the issue in the media and public leading to a national conversation about food poverty.
Poppy is a strong advocate for equality, social justice and human rights. She’s a passionate climate change activist and considers herself as an internationalist, believing countries should work together.
Greta’s peaceful protests inspired a worldwide youth movement, got politicians to engage with climate change issues, and improved public awareness. Her impact has been called the ‘Greta effect.’
Local councils
Many parts of the UK have two tiers of local government, county councils and district, borough or city councils. County councils are responsible for services across the whole of a county including education, planning, and waste management. District, borough and city councils cover a smaller area and are usually responsible for services like housing, recycling, and rubbish collection. Parish, community and town councils operate at a level below district and borough councils and can help on local issues like providing allotments, bus shelters, and consultation on neighbourhood planning.
Cymru/Wales Parliament
The Welsh Parliament, Senedd Cymru, is the democratically elected body that represents the interests of Wales and its people. It makes laws for Wales, agrees Welsh taxes, and oversees the work and spending of the Welsh Government. It does this through debates, questioning ministers, and with the investigative work of its committees. Debates allow Members to voice your concerns in the Senedd, discuss topical issues, and decide on new laws. Committees look at the work of the Welsh Government and other public organisations in Wales in specific devolved areas.
House of Commons
The House of Commons is the elected part of the United Kingdom Parliament. Ministers are the members who are in the government. Political parties not in government are called the opposition. The Speaker is an MP who has been elected by other MPs to act as Chair during debates.
House of Lords
The House of Lords provides a second opinion to the House of Commons and the government. The main role of the House of Lords is making laws, checking and challenging the government and investigating public policy.
Broadcasting
Blogging and YouTube videos have emerged as potent tools for influencing political change by democratising access to information, facilitating public discourse, and mobilising communities. Both blogging and YouTube videos empower individuals to participate actively in political discourse, mobilise support for social movements, and challenge established power structures.
Peaceful protest
Peaceful demonstrations are legal under UK law and you can attempt to achieve change through non-violent and legal demonstrations.
Register to vote
Voting is the act of choosing something or someone in an organised election. You can register to vote from age 14 in Wales and Scotland (and 16 in the rest of the UK,) which means you will be ready to participate in local and general elections.
Write and publish
Writing and publishing play vital roles in shaping political change in the UK by informing public discourse, influencing public opinion, and holding power to account. Use blogging, books, journalism, poetry, reports, or writing on social channels to reach a broader audience.