Nick Griffin, English politician

The Political Journey of Nicholas John Griffin: A Figure in British Far-Right Politics

Nicholas John Griffin, born on March 1, 1959, in Barnet, stands as a prominent and often controversial figure in British far-right politics. His career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of nationalist ideals, leading him through various political organizations and ultimately to a seat in the European Parliament. Griffin's trajectory from a young activist to the leader of the British National Party (BNP) and later an MEP for North West England is a complex narrative intertwined with significant legal and public controversies.

Early Life and Formative Years

Griffin's formative years were spent in Suffolk, where he received his education at Woodbridge School. It was during his youth, at the remarkably early age of 14, that his involvement in far-right politics began, as he joined the National Front. This early immersion laid the groundwork for a lifelong commitment to the movement. Following his graduation from the prestigious University of Cambridge, Griffin deepened his engagement by becoming a dedicated political worker for the National Front. His rise within the party was swift; by 1980, he secured a position on its governing body. During this period, he also lent his pen to various right-wing magazines, articulating and disseminating his political views. Griffin’s early electoral ambitions saw him contesting the seat of Croydon North West for the National Front in both 1981 and 1983, though without success.

Rise within Far-Right Politics and Leadership of the British National Party (BNP)

After nearly two decades with the National Front, Nicholas Griffin departed the party in 1989. However, his commitment to far-right politics remained unwavering. In 1995, he joined the British National Party (BNP), a decision that would ultimately define his public and political career. Within four years, in 1999, Griffin ascended to the leadership of the BNP, taking on the roles of both chairman and later president. This period marked a significant shift in the party's direction, with Griffin attempting to modernize its image while maintaining its core ideology. Under his leadership, the BNP became a more visible and, for a time, electorally successful force, contesting numerous elections across the UK.

Electoral Success and European Parliament Tenure

The pinnacle of Griffin's electoral career arrived in the 2009 European elections. Representing the BNP, he successfully campaigned and was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for North West England. This was a landmark achievement for the party, bringing a far-right voice to a major international legislative body. As an MEP, Griffin’s presence in Brussels and Strasbourg generated considerable media attention and controversy. His tenure in the European Parliament, however, lasted for one term, concluding in 2014.

Controversies, Legal Challenges, and Public Scrutiny

Nicholas Griffin's political journey has been consistently overshadowed by significant controversies and legal battles. In 1998, he faced conviction for distributing material deemed likely to incite racial hatred, resulting in a suspended prison sentence. Years later, in 2006, he was acquitted of separate charges related to inciting racial hatred, though the accusations further cemented his contentious public image.

Beyond legal challenges, Griffin has been a perennial subject of criticism for his provocative comments on a wide array of political, social, ethical, and religious issues. Notably, after assuming leadership of the BNP, he sought to distance himself from some of his previously held, highly inflammatory positions, including instances of Holocaust denial. Despite these attempts at moderation, his past continued to haunt him. Invitations for Griffin to participate in public debates or political discussions frequently ignited outrage, leading to widespread protests and, in many cases, the eventual cancellation of such events. These recurring incidents underscored the deep public opposition and sensitivity surrounding his views and presence.

Legacy and Expulsion

Griffin's long tenure as the leader of the British National Party concluded in 2014, the same year his term as an MEP ended. Following a period of internal party strife and declining electoral fortunes for the BNP, he was ultimately expelled from the party he had led for 15 years. His political career, marked by relentless activism and unyielding commitment to nationalist ideals, remains a significant, albeit divisive, chapter in modern British political history, embodying the challenges and controversies associated with far-right movements.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nicholas John Griffin

Who is Nicholas John Griffin?
Nicholas John Griffin is a British politician best known for his leadership of the far-right British National Party (BNP) and his term as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for North West England.
When was Nicholas Griffin born?
Nicholas Griffin was born on March 1, 1959.
Which political parties has Nicholas Griffin been associated with?
Griffin was first involved with the National Front, which he joined at age 14. He later became the chairman and then president of the British National Party (BNP).
Was Nicholas Griffin ever elected to public office?
Yes, he was elected as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for North West England in the 2009 European elections, serving until 2014.
What were some of the major controversies involving Nicholas Griffin?
Griffin was convicted in 1998 for distributing material likely to incite racial hatred. He has also been widely criticized for comments on political, social, ethical, and religious matters, including past instances of Holocaust denial, which he later sought to distance himself from.
When did Nicholas Griffin leave the BNP?
He was expelled from the British National Party (BNP) in 2014, the same year his term as an MEP concluded.