Far-right extremism – January 2025

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Introduction

In January 2025, the global landscape was marked by an alarming presence of terrorism linked to extreme right-wing ideologies. This analysis underscores the paramount significance of this issue in the contemporary world order.

Terrorism, irrespective of its ideological roots, has long posed a grave threat to international peace and security. Recent times, however, have witnessed a distinct shift in this threat landscape. The ascent of extreme right-wing terrorism has introduced a new layer of complexity to the global security equation.

This report aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of extreme right-wing terrorism in January 2025, offering insights into its evolution, and current manifestations. By dissecting the trends, causative factors, and ramifications of this phenomenon, our objective is to foster awareness and inform policymaking while fostering international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

UK Government Sanctions Extreme-Right Group Under Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regulations

The UK government has imposed financial sanctions on an extreme right-wing group under new domestic counter-terrorism regulations. The sanctions, which will freeze any UK-based assets and restrict access to financial services, are part of a broader effort to disrupt extremist networks that promote hate and incite violence. Authorities have described the group as posing a significant threat to national security, and the measures are intended to prevent it from furthering its dangerous agenda through covert funding channels (1).

The move comes amid growing concern over far-right extremism in the UK, with government officials warning that such groups are increasingly active and capable of undermining public safety and democratic values. By targeting the financial operations of these extremist organizations, the government aims to curb their ability to organize and execute violent actions. This decisive action sends a clear message that the state will not tolerate hate-fueled activities and will continue to employ all available tools to safeguard the community and national security.

Far-Right Group Exposed in Undercover BBC Investigation

An undercover BBC investigation has revealed disturbing details about the far-right group Patriotic Alternative, sparking calls for legal action and potential bans. Over the course of a year, an undercover journalist infiltrated the organization, capturing members expressing violent, racist views, including calls for violence against migrants (2). Some members suggested adopting Nazi-like tactics to gain power, while others discussed arming themselves.

The investigation documented activities such as protests against migrant housing and secretive gatherings where members made inflammatory remarks that experts believe could incite racial hatred. Dame Sara Khan, former Counter-Extremism Commissioner, urged the UK government to outlaw such groups, accusing them of mainstreaming extremism.

Patriotic Alternative leader Mark Collett denies endorsing violence or extremism, claiming the group advocates for “indigenous British citizens.” However, evidence from the investigation suggests otherwise, with members openly using racial slurs and promoting far-right ideologies.

White Supremacist Jailed for Life After Terror Attack on Asylum Seeker

Callum Parslow, a 32-year-old white supremacist with neo-Nazi beliefs, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the attempted murder of Eritrean asylum seeker Nahom Hagos in Worcestershire. The attack, which occurred at the Pear Tree Inn in April 2024, was described by the judge as a “preplanned terrorist act” motivated by Parslow’s far-right ideology (3). Parslow stabbed Hagos in the chest and hand with a specialized knife he purchased online for £770.

During sentencing, Mr. Justice Dove emphasized that Parslow’s actions were fueled by his “warped, violent, and racist views,” adding that the attack was intended to intimidate asylum seekers and those supporting them. Parslow had also attempted to post a manifesto on social media, claiming he was fulfilling his “duty to England” by targeting his victim.

Hagos, who survived the assault, continues to suffer from PTSD and severe physical injuries. In addition to the life sentence with a minimum term of 22 years and eight months, Parslow was convicted of unrelated sexual offenses and malicious communications. Police found Nazi memorabilia in his home, including a swastika armband and Adolf Hitler’s signature tattooed on his arm.

 

UNITED STATES

Penn Law Professor with Far-Right Views Sues University Over Sanctions

University of Pennsylvania law professor Amy Wax has filed a lawsuit against the university, alleging racial discrimination and violations of her First Amendment rights in response to sanctions imposed on her. The sanctions, upheld in September 2024, included a one-year suspension at half pay, removal of her named chair, and other penalties due to her history of controversial comments about race, ethnicity, and immigration, as well as inviting white nationalist Jared Taylor to speak in her class. Wax argues that Penn enforces its speech policies disproportionately against white individuals and claims the disciplinary process was biased and flawed.

The university’s Faculty Hearing Board previously found Wax guilty of “flagrant unprofessional conduct,” citing discriminatory remarks and actions that created an unequal educational environment (4). Wax has denied some allegations and characterized others as attacks on her conservative views. The lawsuit also accuses Penn of failing to accommodate her cancer treatment during the disciplinary process

Yellowstone Gunman’s White Supremacist Ideology Under Scrutiny

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has revealed that a gunman involved in a shooting incident near Yellowstone National Park harbored white supremacist views, according to official statements released on January 8, 2025. Investigators uncovered evidence from online communications and personal statements indicating that the suspect was deeply influenced by far-right extremist ideologies. Authorities allege that his rhetoric, filled with hate and divisive messages, not only fueled his actions but also aligned him with a broader pattern of domestic terrorism linked to white supremacist groups. According to the court filing, he made inflammatory comments about immigrants, African Americans and Jews, including how they were negatively affecting the country.

The investigation is part of a broader federal effort to identify and dismantle extremist networks that may be inciting violence in local communities. Law enforcement officials emphasized that the gunman’s extremist views, which were prominently displayed in his digital footprint, played a significant role in his decision to carry out the attack (5). The U.S. Attorney’s Office is continuing to review all related evidence and has warned that any connections to organized hate groups will be met with rigorous legal action.

Senate Budget Committee Reveals Historic Obstruction in Nazi-Linked Credit Suisse Accounts

The Senate Budget Committee’s investigation into Nazi-linked accounts at Credit Suisse has yielded extensive new findings, uncovering a longstanding pattern of obstruction by the bank. The probe focused on how Credit Suisse managed and, at times, hindered transparency regarding accounts associated with Nazi-era assets. According to the committee’s report, the bank systematically obstructed efforts to resolve issues related to historical financial misconduct, impeding accountability for crimes linked to Nazi financial activities (6).

These revelations underscore significant concerns about the financial institution’s practices and their impact on victims seeking justice for past atrocities. Lawmakers emphasized that the bank’s repeated non-cooperation not only concealed the full extent of Nazi-linked financial misconduct but also undermined regulatory efforts aimed at addressing these dark chapters in history. The findings have prompted calls for further reforms and accountability measures within the financial sector to ensure that such obstructive behavior is curtailed and that transparency is maintained in the handling of legacy assets.

UGA Investigation Clears Employee in Neo-Nazi Festival Property Case

An investigation by the University of Georgia has cleared an employee of any wrongdoing regarding the use of a property for a neo-Nazi festival. The probe determined that the employee, who manages the property, was not involved in organizing or promoting the extremist event. Instead, the investigation revealed that the neo-Nazi festival was organized independently by an external group, and the employee merely performed their routine property management duties in full compliance with institutional policies and legal standards.

The report emphasizes that there is no evidence to suggest that the employee knowingly facilitated or endorsed the extremist activities, and that any connection between the property and the neo-Nazi event was purely coincidental (7). Local officials and university representatives welcomed the findings, noting that it is crucial to distinguish between the administrative functions of property management and the independent actions of extremist groups.

Federal Judge Awards $2.75 Million to Boston Musician for Patriot Front Attack

U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani has awarded $2.75 million in damages to 37-year-old saxophonist Charles Murrell III after he was violently assaulted by members of the white supremacist group Patriot Front during a 2022 flash march in Boston. Murrell, a Black musician on his way to perform at the Boston Public Library, was attacked on Dartmouth Street, where the assailants used metal shields to knock him down, beat him, and verbally abused him with racist slurs. The attackers further inflamed the situation by posting a video of the assault online, glorifying their actions and promoting hateful ideologies that subordinate non-white individuals (8).

The court’s ruling provides compensation for Murrell’s physical injuries, including hand lacerations that have affected his ability to play music, as well as for psychological distress and lost wages due to the trauma he experienced. The judgment, which includes punitive damages designed to deter similar hate-fueled acts in the future, was issued by default after Patriot Front and its leader, Thomas Rousseau, failed to respond to the lawsuit. Judge Talwani underscored that the group’s conduct was a flagrant violation of civil rights, sending a strong message that such extremist violence will not be tolerated in the United States.

US Designates Terrorgram Network as Terrorist Organization

The U.S. government has officially designated the Terrorgram network—a notorious extreme right-wing online platform—as a terrorist organization. The designation comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of far-right extremist ideologies that use digital platforms to spread hate propaganda, incite violence, and recruit supporters for domestic terrorism (9). Authorities allege that Terrorgram has been instrumental in coordinating violent acts and disseminating extremist content, contributing to an environment that undermines public safety and democratic values.

This designation will allow federal agencies to freeze assets and restrict financial transactions associated with Terrorgram, significantly disrupting its operations and funding channels. Officials emphasized that the move is a critical part of a broader government effort to combat domestic extremism and protect vulnerable communities from hate-fueled violence. The decision has received widespread support from civil rights groups, while far-right figures have decried it as an overreach that curtails free speech. The action marks a significant escalation in U.S. counterterrorism efforts targeting online extremist networks.

NH Supreme Court Sides with White Supremacist Group Over Highway Banner in Portsmouth

The New Hampshire Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a white supremacist group that displayed a controversial banner along a highway in Portsmouth. The group, which argued that its banner is protected by free speech rights, had challenged previous lower court decisions that sought to remove the signage for violating hate speech regulations. In its decision, the court emphasized the constitutional protections afforded to speech, even when that speech is widely considered hateful, sparking significant public debate.

Critics of the ruling, including civil rights advocates and community leaders, argue that allowing such messages to remain in public view legitimizes extremist ideologies and undermines community cohesion. Supporters, however, claim that the decision is a necessary affirmation of free expression under the law (10). The case has highlighted the ongoing tensions in New Hampshire and across the nation between protecting constitutional rights and curbing hate speech, and it is expected to fuel further discussions on the limits of free speech in relation to extremist content.

Elon Musk’s Gesture at Trump Event Sparks Controversy Over Alleged Nazi Salute

Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla and X, has drawn widespread criticism after making a straight-arm gesture during a rally celebrating Donald Trump’s second presidential inauguration. The gesture, which many compared to a Nazi salute, was performed twice as Musk addressed the crowd, thanking them for their role in Trump’s electoral victory. Musk dismissed the accusations as “tired attacks,” while the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) described it as an “awkward gesture” rather than a deliberate Nazi salute (11).

The gesture has been celebrated by white nationalist groups, including White Lives Matter, who interpreted it as aligning with their ideology. Critics argue that this incident is part of a troubling pattern in Musk’s behavior, which includes endorsing antisemitic conspiracy theories and supporting far-right European political parties like Germany’s Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). Jewish organizations and Holocaust survivors have condemned the gesture, warning that such actions by a prominent public figure could embolden extremists and normalize fascist ideologies.

This controversy comes amid heightened global concerns over rising antisemitism, with Musk previously facing backlash for endorsing antisemitic posts on X. Advocacy groups have called for accountability, while some Jewish organizations have announced plans to leave Musk’s platform in protest.

Pennsylvania Teacher Resigns After Calling Muslim Student a “Terrorist”

A middle school teacher in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, has resigned following accusations of calling a Muslim seventh grader a “terrorist.” The incident occurred on January 16 at Central Dauphin Middle School when the Palestinian Lebanese American student requested to change seats, and the teacher allegedly responded, “I do not negotiate with terrorists” (12).

The Central Dauphin School District placed the teacher on administrative leave and later accepted her resignation. The district condemned the behavior, stating it contradicts its core values and policies. The student’s father, Adam Rahman, expressed concern over the lasting emotional impact on his son and called for more inclusive education within the district.

Community leaders and advocacy groups, including the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), have demanded cultural sensitivity training for teachers and an anti-bias curriculum. They also criticized the incident as a reflection of broader systemic issues, urging the district to address racism and misinformation about Middle Eastern communities in its educational programs.

Neo-Nazi Leader Faces Trial for Plot to Attack Maryland Power Grid

Brandon Clint Russell, a co-founder of the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen, is on trial in Maryland for allegedly conspiring to attack the Baltimore region’s power grid. Prosecutors claim Russell planned the attacks between 2022 and 2023 as part of his white supremacist “accelerationist” ideology, which seeks to overthrow the government through societal collapse (13). Using encrypted apps, Russell shared maps of electrical substations and encouraged attacks during times of high energy demand to maximize disruption. Prosecutors estimate the plot could have caused widespread outages and $75 million in damages.

Russell collaborated with Sarah Beth Clendaniel, a convicted felon from Maryland who pleaded guilty in 2024 to her role in the plot and was sentenced to 18 years in prison. Evidence showed Clendaniel planned to use firearms to target multiple substations and remained in contact with Russell while incarcerated. Both individuals espoused neo-Nazi beliefs and aimed to incite chaos through domestic terrorism. Russell, previously convicted in 2018 for possessing explosives, faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The trial highlights ongoing concerns about far-right extremist groups targeting critical infrastructure in the United States.

 

AUSTRALIA

Anti-Semitic Graffiti at Newcastle Pharmacy Sparks NSW Court Case

Authorities in Newcastle are investigating an incident of anti-Semitic graffiti discovered on a local pharmacy, an act that has drawn widespread condemnation from community leaders and members of the Jewish community. The hate-filled markings, featuring Nazi symbols and derogatory slogans, have been linked to far-right extremist activity. The suspect, Bjorn Johnson, is now facing charges in a New South Wales court, as prosecutors argue that his actions were motivated by a white supremacist ideology intended to intimidate and spread racial hatred (14).

The case is being closely watched as part of broader efforts to clamp down on hate crimes in the region. Local officials and community advocates emphasize that such acts of vandalism not only desecrate public spaces but also foster an environment of fear and division. The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the commitment of authorities to hold individuals accountable for extremist actions and to safeguard the values of diversity and inclusion in Newcastle and across New South Wales.

 

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in January 2025

In January 2025, 14 incidents linked to terrorism and right-wing extremist violence were reported across three countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. This marks a notable decrease in the geographical spread compared to December 2024, when six countries were affected. Despite the narrower distribution, the high number of incidents within these key nations highlights the ongoing intensity of far-right activity, particularly in regions already known for persistent extremist threats.

The concentration of incidents in these Western democracies—especially in the United States, which reported the majority—demonstrates how entrenched far-right ideologies continue to drive violence. The UK and Australia, with their own histories of nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiment, also remain vulnerable to such threats.

This pattern reinforces the importance of monitoring cross-border networks and understanding how localized socio-political dynamics fuel extremist activity. While fewer countries were impacted this month, the high frequency of incidents within the core affected regions underlines the need for sustained, localized counter-extremism measures, complemented by international collaboration.

Throughout  January 2025, acts of violence and trials remained prominent, continuing to reflect the dual nature of the far-right extremist threat. The high number of trials highlights sustained legal efforts to prosecute perpetrators of past violence and extremist activities, showcasing the judicial system’s critical role in tackling radicalization. At the same time, acts of violence persisted, underscoring the enduring operational capacity of extremist groups and the need for proactive prevention.

This month, an increase in legal actions, such as the UK Government’s sanctions against an extreme-right group under domestic counter-terrorism regulations, marked a significant shift. These measures demonstrate how governments are expanding their use of legal tools to disrupt extremist networks and limit their influence. Unlike reactive trials, such proactive sanctions aim to prevent extremist activity by targeting organizations before they escalate into violence.

In January 2025, the ideologies driving far-right extremist violence were more varied than in previous months, with a significant rise in racially motivated ideologies. White supremacy, anti-immigration sentiment, and racially targeted hate groups were particularly active, demonstrating how extremist networks are diversifying their narratives to target multiple vulnerable communities. These varied ideological drivers highlight the ongoing challenge of addressing the full spectrum of far-right extremism.

A key incident this month involved the Senate Budget Committee’s revelation of obstruction related to Nazi-linked Credit Suisse accounts. These beliefs remain deeply embedded within certain extremist circles, exploiting historical grievances and anti-democratic ideals to justify their actions. Combined with the resurgence of antisemitic rhetoric, which continues to pose risks to Jewish communities, this month’s ideological landscape reflects how extremists adapt to historical and modern narratives alike.

This diversity of ideologies highlights the importance of multifaceted prevention strategies. From addressing racially motivated hate to combating antisemitic and authoritarian ideologies, counter-extremism efforts must encompass both legacy threats and emerging forms of radicalization to prevent further social and political destabilization.

 

REFERENCES

ABC Australia. Forster, Jason, y Rachel Stephens. “Anti-Semitic Graffiti at Newcastle Pharmacy Sparks NSW Court Case.” https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-13/newcastle-anti-semitic-pharmacy-graffiti-bjorn-johnson-court-nsw/104810190

AP News. Condon, Kevin. “Elon Musk’s Gesture at Trump Event Sparks Controversy Over Alleged Nazi Salute.” https://apnews.com/article/musk-gesture-salute-antisemitism-0070dae53c7a73397b104ae645877535

Banner-Herald. “UGA Investigation Clears Employee in Neo-Nazi Festival Property Case.” https://eu.onlineathens.com/story/news/local/2025/01/09/uga-investigation-clears-employee-who-property-held-neo-nazi-festival/77579679007/

BBC News. Kermack, Mark. “White Supremacist Jailed for Life After Terror Attack on Asylum Seeker.” https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c7vddrjjgr0o

BBC Wales Investigates Team. “Far-Right Group Exposed in Undercover BBC Investigation.” BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8xykr5v95o

CBS News. Lynch, John. “Neo-Nazi Leader Faces Trial for Plot to Attack Maryland Power Grid.” https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/maryland-power-grid-terrorist-conspiracy-neo-nazi-leader-trial/

Connecticut Public Radio. Bookman, Matt. “NH Supreme Court Sides with White Supremacist Group Over Highway Banner in Portsmouth.” https://www.ctpublic.org/2025-01-10/nh-supreme-court-sides-with-white-supremacist-group-over-highway-banner-in-portsmouth

NBC News. Alsharif, Waleed, y Gavin Kottke. “Pennsylvania Teacher Resigns After Calling Muslim Student a ‘Terrorist’.” https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/pennsylvania-teacher-leave-calling-muslim-student-terrorist-rcna189328

Reuters. “US Designates Terrorgram Network as Terrorist Organization.” U.S. News. https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-01-13/us-designates-extreme-right-wing-terrorgram-network-as-terrorist-group

Senate Budget Committee. “Senate Budget Committee Reveals Historic Obstruction in Nazi-Linked Credit Suisse Accounts.” https://www.budget.senate.gov/chairman/newsroom/press/senate-budget-committee-investigation-into-nazi-linked-credit-suisse-accounts-yields-extensive-new-findings-reveals-banks-historic-pattern-of-obstruction

The Legal Intelligencer. O’Brien, Liam. “Penn Law Professor with Far-Right Views Sues University Over Sanctions.” https://www.law.com/thelegalintelligencer/2025/01/16/sanctioned-penn-law-professor-amy-wax-sues-university-alleging-discrimination/?slreturn=20250205131539

UK Government News. Sandford, Robert. “UK Government Sanctions Extreme-Right Group Under Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regulations.” https://www.gov.uk/government/news/extreme-right-wing-group-sanctioned-by-hm-treasury-under-domestic-counter-terrorism-regulations

WBUR News. Sanchez-Smith, Karla. “Federal Judge Awards $2.75 Million to Boston Musician for Patriot Front Attack.” https://www.wbur.org/news/2025/01/13/patriot-front-attack-boston-lawsuit

Wyoming Public Media. Weitz, Steven, y Marc Ouellet. “Yellowstone Gunman’s White Supremacist Ideology Under Scrutiny.” https://www.wyomingpublicmedia.org/politics-government/2025-01-08/u-s-attorneys-office-yellowstone-gunman-espoused-white-supremacist-views