Immigration, Extremism and Community Cohesion
Debate over immigration, and the challenge it poses to ‘cohesive’ communities has become increasingly prominent in recent years. While some have adapted positively to demographic change, other groups are deeply hostile, a by-product of which has been the rise of extremist movements and parties.
Attitudes to Immigration
Over the past few decades, hostility to immigration in Britain and other European states has been on the rise, raising questions about the extent to which what have been relatively successful experiences with multiculturalism can continue. As citizens become increasingly unreceptive to overseas immigration, it is important to understand the sources of antipathy. Research by Matthew Goodwin and Lauren McLaren has examined both the politically-generated reasons for hostility as well as the nature of individual-level opposition to immigration. McLaren also explores the implications of anti-immigrant sentiment for the functioning of the British political system, and particularly whether concerns about immigration are contributing to the low level of trust in politicians and political institutions.
Extremism
In recent years, one of the most striking developments across Europe has been a resurgence of support for different forms of extremism. Whether political or religious, extremist movements and their supporters pose significant challenges to local authorities and national government. To strengthen our understanding of the drivers of support for extremism we are engaged in a long term study of the social and attitudinal profile of extreme right party voters and members, work in which Matthew Goodwin is particularly interested. This programme of research has been supported by numerous local and national government agencies, and has involved colleagues from different institutions. In addition, to shed light on the roots of these changes Lauren McLaren is investigating deeper shifts in public opinion toward issues such as immigration and established Muslim communities. Third, to contribute to discussion over how best to respond Vivien Lowndes is exploring local community-based responses to extremism, and has a particular interest in the Preventing Violent Extremism agenda, as does David Stevens. This research has appeared in numerous academic journals and books, and has led members to engage closely with public policy makers, practitioners and other stakeholders, including the Home Office, Communities and Local Government and numerous local authorities.
Community Cohesion
Against the backdrop of immigration and the rise of extremist groups, concerns about cohesion are growing across Europe. Often portrayed as a struggle between ‘multiculturalism’ and assimilation, the growth of policy discourse around ‘community cohesion’ actually connects with broader currents. Vivien Lowndes’ recent work distinguishes between communitarian, republican and neo-liberal approaches to seeking greater cohesion. Through action research with local authorities and community groups, she is analysing how these different modes are combined in practice. New Labour favoured an increased role for ‘faith communities’ in public policy, as a means of fostering cohesion and involving marginalised groups. Lowndes explores whether this threatens the secular liberal democratic settlement, or simply exemplifies new, more inclusive forms of representation and citizen participation. In addition, Matthew Goodwin has recently engaged with local authorities to explore current attempts to encourage social contact and ‘meaningful interaction’ between members of different groups.