Research and analysis

How we should - and shouldn’t - ban extremist speech

An essay written by Eric Heinze, part of a series of essays on defending free speech commissioned by Robin Simcox, the former Commissioner for Countering Extremism.

• From: Commission for Countering Extremism
• Published: 18 August 2025

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How we should - and shouldn’t - ban extremist speech

PDF, 662 KB, 17 pages

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This essay examines how democracies should regulate extremist speech, distinguishing between different contexts and types of communication.

It argues that longstanding, stable and prosperous democracies should not ordinarily penalise speech addressed to general audiences solely on grounds of repugnant ideas expressed, whilst acknowledging that electronic platforms present greater risks requiring democratic controls.

These essays have been independently commissioned. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the UK Government or the Commission for Countering Extremism.

These essays were commissioned to present a diverse range of perspectives from authors with contrasting or conflicting opinions on this issue. They are provided to contribute to this vital discussion and do not imply agreement or endorsement by any associated organisations or individuals.

We are aware that this publication may have accessibility issues. We are working on an accessible version.

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Published 18 August 2025