Europe's far-right and the media

The participation of the leader of the far-right British National Party, Nick Griffin, in a BBC discussion programme has led to a large number of complaints to Britain's media regulator.

It is the first time Mr Griffin has been asked to take part in a prime-time discussion programme alongside politicians from mainstream parties.

Anti-fascist protesters gathered outside the BBC's Television Centre while the programme was being recorded.

During his appearance on the programme, Mr Griffin attacked Islam and homosexuals.

The BBC has been criticised for giving him a platform for his views.

But Britain is not the first European country to put far-right politicians on air.

In France, Jean Marie Le Pen himself credits a television appearance in 1984 as being his breakthrough moment.

Europe Today's James Coomarasamy takes a detailed look at the relationship between the far-right and the media in France, Hungary, Sweden, Germany and the UK.

It was broadcast shortly before the recording of the controversial programme featuring Nick Griffin.

First broadcast 22 October 2009