Far Right Extremism and Terrorism (FRET)

Our FRET programme specifically targets the segment of the spectrum characterised by a willingness to resort to violence, which is often linked to the extreme right. Although our primary emphasis is on these violent factions, we also acknowledge that the normalisation of far-right narratives can motivate and strengthen acts of violence.

Through a transnational and holistic lens, our initiative aims to both comprehend and combat FRET. This worldwide perspective not only extends our insight into the influence of FRET beyond the conventional regions of Western Europe and North America but also strengthens our capacity to effectively mitigate its impact. Our research is designed to foster global collaboration among policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and civil society, ensuring that our responses are as interconnected and complex as the networks we seek to dismantle.

The digital landscape

The digital landscape functions as a significant medium for the dissemination and strengthening of far right and other extremist ideologies. The dynamics of the online environment are crucial in enhancing hate speech and extremist content, with social media, forums, and gaming platforms facilitating the normalization of these narratives, allowing such ideologies to engage broader audiences more efficiently than in the past.

Gender

Gender significantly influences the radicalisation and recruitment strategies of far-right groups and movements, often shaping the narratives and tactics employed to engage and mobilise supporters. These groups commonly manipulate traditional gender roles, portraying men as defenders of cultural and racial integrity, who are responsible for 'reclaiming' their preeminent position in society. Conversely, women are frequently targeted with narratives that highlight their roles as the bearers of future ideologues, thereby encouraging their involvement in the movement through both direct actions and supportive roles. Additionally, feminism is often depicted as a direct threat to the survival of indigenous populations, associating declining birth rates with broader demographic shifts.

Eco-fascism

Historically, certain far-right groups and individuals have been sceptical of climate change; however, they have recently shifted their stance to incorporate environmental disasters into their ideological beliefs, a phenomenon commonly known as eco-fascism. This change demonstrates a calculated approach to utilising climate-related narratives to promote xenophobic and anti-immigrant attitudes, often framed as efforts to address overpopulation and safeguard national resources.

Far Right and National Security Agencies

The growing integration of far-right extremist ideologies into political discussions necessitates the urgent development of preventive programmes in various societies. These programmes should target the root causes that enhance the appeal of such ideologies, particularly within security forces. The presence of far-right extremist beliefs within national security agencies represents a serious risk to both internal safety and public confidence in these institutions. 

Our research examines the similarities among various types of extremism, highlighting opportunities to implement effective counterterrorism and strategies for preventing and countering violent extremism (CT/PCVE) specifically tailored to the context of far-right threats. We aim to create tailored approaches to effectively address far-right extremism and terrorism.