Far-right violence and terrorism – April 2025

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Introduction

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

Terrorism and extremism, irrespective of their ideological roots, have 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 comprehensively analyze extreme right-wing extremism in April 2025, offering insights into its evolution and current manifestations. By dissecting this phenomenon’s trends, causative factors, and ramifications, our objective is to foster awareness and inform policymaking while fostering international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

 

CANADA

Canadian Neo-Nazi Propagandist Convicted on Terrorism Charges

Patrick Gordon Macdonald, a 27-year-old Canadian graphic designer known online as “Dark Foreigner,” has been convicted on multiple terrorism-related charges for his involvement with the Atomwaffen Division, a neo-Nazi terrorist organization. Macdonald was found guilty of participating in the activities of a terrorist group, facilitating terrorist activity, and committing an offense for a terrorist group through the willful promotion of hatred. This case marks the first time in Canada that an individual has been convicted under both anti-terrorism and hate propaganda laws.

Authorities allege that Macdonald produced propaganda materials, including three videos, to promote Atomwaffen Division’s violent ideology and recruit new members. Evidence presented during the trial linked digital files and camera equipment seized from Macdonald’s residence to the creation of these videos. Despite the defense’s arguments challenging the sufficiency of the evidence and the timing of Atomwaffen’s designation as a terrorist entity, the court concluded that Macdonald’s actions constituted active participation in terrorist activities. The conviction underscores the Canadian government’s commitment to addressing ideologically motivated violent extremism (1).

 

FRANCE

French Anti-Racism Group Files Complaint Over Far-Right Flyers Distributed Near Le Pen Rally

A French anti-racism organization, SOS Racisme, has filed a legal complaint against the far-right fringe group Luminis Paris for distributing inflammatory flyers near a Marine Le Pen rally. The flyers, which featured violent imagery and explicitly xenophobic messages, called on French citizens to “fight back” against foreigners, inciting racial hatred and violence (2). SOS Racisme condemned the act and warned of the growing mainstream acceptance of such rhetoric within the far-right. The group urged authorities to ban the flyers and dissolve Luminis Paris, highlighting concerns over the increasingly structured and radicalized nature of racism in France.

Luminis Paris has previously been criticized for conducting anti-migrant patrols in 2024. The incident takes place amid rising public resistance to far-right ideologies, with tens of thousands having recently marched across France to denounce racism, and another nationwide protest is scheduled for the coming Saturday.

 

SWEDEN

Sweden Faces Surge in Far-Right Youth Recruitment Amid Global Influences

Sweden is experiencing a troubling rise in far-right extremist groups targeting young boys, some as young as 10, for recruitment. These groups exploit online platforms like TikTok to disseminate violent and racist propaganda, often glorifying figures from the “manosphere” such as Andrew Tate. Sociologist Lars Stiernelöf notes that children in regions like Värmland have been observed mimicking fascist-style gestures, influenced by public figures like Elon Musk. This trend underscores the need for early intervention to prevent the radicalization of vulnerable youth.

The recruitment strategies have evolved, focusing on socially isolated boys and utilizing decentralized groups like Aktivklubb Sverige and Gym XIV. These organizations combine online indoctrination with physical training, promoting ideologies centered on racism, misogyny, and anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments (3). The normalization of far-right views in political discourse, particularly by parties like the Sweden Democrats, has further exacerbated the issue. Security services warn that this digital radicalization and the proliferation of active clubs are creating an environment conducive to terrorism.

 

UNITED STATES

White Supremacist Banner Found on Utah Overpass Prompts Police Investigation

A large banner affiliated with the white supremacist group Patriot Front was discovered hanging from an overpass near Exit 13 of Interstate 15 in Washington, Utah. A concerned resident removed the sign and reported it to local authorities, expressing alarm over the presence of hate group propaganda in their community. The Washington Police Department confirmed this is the first known incident of its kind in the area and has initiated an investigation into the matter.

Patriot Front, a group known for its white nationalist ideology, has been increasingly active across Utah in recent years.The organization has previously conducted similar displays along Interstate 15 and held rallies in various cities throughout the state. Their activities are part of a broader strategy to disseminate extremist messages and recruit members.The incident in Washington has raised concerns among residents and law enforcement about the spread of such ideologies in the region (4).

White Supremacist speaker at Colorado Mesa University sparks protests

Colorado Mesa University (CMU) in Grand Junction is facing criticism after a speaker with alleged white supremacist ties addressed students on campus (5). The event, organized by a student group, featured a speaker whose views have been widely condemned as promoting hate and division. University officials stated that while they support free speech, they do not endorse the speaker’s ideology.

The incident has sparked a broader conversation within the CMU community about the balance between upholding free speech and ensuring an inclusive environment. Students and faculty have expressed concerns over the potential impact of such events on campus climate, prompting calls for the university to reevaluate its policies on guest speakers and to reinforce its commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Wisconsin Teen Charged in Parents’ Murders and Alleged Plot to Assassinate President Trump

Nikita Casap, a 17-year-old from Waukesha, Wisconsin, has been charged with the murders of his mother, Tatiana Casap, and stepfather, Donald Mayer. Authorities allege that Casap committed the killings to obtain financial resources and autonomy necessary to carry out a plot to assassinate President Donald Trump and incite a race war. An FBI affidavit reveals that Casap was influenced by neo-Nazi ideologies and had connections to extremist groups.

Investigations uncovered a manifesto attributed to Casap, expressing intentions to overthrow the U.S. government and “save the white race” (6). He reportedly communicated with individuals, including a contact in Russia, about his plans and had acquired a drone and explosives intended for use as weapons. Casap is currently held on a $1 million bond and is scheduled for arraignment on May 7.

White Supremacist Newspaper Ad Promotes Book Burning Event in Maine

A local newspaper in Maine has come under fire after publishing a paid advertisement promoting a white supremacist book-burning event. The ad, placed by the New England White Network—an openly white nationalist group—invited readers to attend a gathering encouraging the destruction of books considered “anti-white,” including titles that address racial justice and LGBTQ+ issues (7). The event, scheduled for late April, was promoted as a patriotic action aimed at preserving “Western culture” and was accompanied by overtly racist and exclusionary language.

The ad sparked widespread condemnation from local officials, civil rights groups, and community members, who called it a dangerous escalation in hate rhetoric. South Portland Mayor Kate Lewis said the incident was “deeply disturbing” and urged local media to implement stricter review policies for paid content. The Southern Poverty Law Center and other advocacy groups have flagged the New England White Network as an extremist organization. Local law enforcement is monitoring the situation closely, though the legality of the ad falls into a complex gray area around free speech protections.

Neo-Nazi  Leader Accused of Being Spy

Rinaldo Nazzaro, the American founder of the neo-Nazi group The Base, is accused by former members of being a Russian intelligence asset. Operating from Russia, Nazzaro allegedly used his position to direct the group’s activities, including sabotage and assassination missions in Ukraine, aligning with Kremlin interests. Former members noted suspicious behaviors, such as his fluent Russian texting and travel patterns coinciding with arrests of group members (8).

The Base, designated as a terrorist organization globally, has escalated its operations under Nazzaro’s leadership. The group’s activities, including calls for targeted attacks in Ukraine, have raised concerns about foreign influence on domestic extremist groups. Nazzaro’s past as a Pentagon contractor and his current residence in Russia further fuel suspicions about his ties to Russian intelligence.

Florida State University Shooting Suspect Linked to White Supremacy

Tragedy struck Florida State University in Tallahassee when 20-year-old political science student Phoenix Ikner opened fire on campus, killing two people and injuring six others before being shot and apprehended by police. Authorities confirmed that Ikner used a handgun registered to his stepmother, a Leon County Sheriff’s Deputy, raising questions about how the weapon was accessed and whether warning signs had been missed.

As investigators dug into Ikner’s past, a disturbing ideological profile surfaced. Former classmates and university sources described him as increasingly vocal about white supremacist and far-right beliefs. He was removed from a political discussion group for making racist remarks and spreading conspiracy theories, and his social media presence reflected a growing fixation on extremist content. Despite his involvement in the sheriff’s youth advisory council—a position meant to promote civic engagement—concerns about his behavior had reportedly been documented but not acted upon (9).

As families mourn and survivors recover, renewed scrutiny is being placed on how institutions—educational and law enforcement alike—monitor and respond to signs of hate-fueled ideology before they erupt into violence.

 

SPAIN

Spain’s Congress Approves Law to Dissolve Associations Glorifying Francoism

Spain’s Congress of Deputies approved a reform to the Law on the Right of Association, enabling the dissolution of associations that glorify the Franco regime, the 1936 coup d’état, or the subsequent dictatorship. The measure passed with support from most political parties (10). The People’s Party (PP) abstained, while Vox voted against the proposal. The reform stipulates that associations can be dissolved if they promote Francoism, especially when such promotion involves humiliation of the victims’ dignity or incites hatred or violence against them. The decision to dissolve an association will be made by a judge, regardless of the association’s stated objectives or registered activities.

The law does not directly affect the Francisco Franco Foundation, as it is classified as a foundation rather than an association. However, the government plans to pursue its dissolution through other legal avenues. The PP justified its abstention by citing the rejection of its proposed amendments, which sought to include provisions against associations that glorify any totalitarian regime or demean victims of terrorism. Vox criticized the law as unconstitutional and argued that it could inadvertently increase interest in Francoism among young people. The legislation now proceeds to the Senate, where the PP holds a majority and may introduce amendments.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Harry Redknapp Criticized for ‘German Spy’ Remark and Apparent Nazi Salute

Former England football manager Harry Redknapp has come under fire after making controversial remarks about current England head coach Thomas Tuchel during a charity event in London. Redknapp referred to Tuchel as a “German spy” and appeared to perform a Nazi salute, actions that have been widely condemned (11).

The incident occurred when Redknapp, speaking to an audience, joked that Tuchel had been sent to sabotage the England team, likening him to World War II propagandist “Lord Haw-Haw.” He then mimicked a German accent and raised his arm in a gesture resembling a Nazi salute. The audience responded with laughter, but the act has sparked significant backlash.

Redknapp later acknowledged that his comments “badly backfired,” stating they were intended as a joke. He expressed support for English managers, suggesting that Newcastle’s Eddie Howe would have been a preferable choice for the England role. The Football Association has not commented on the matter.

UK Arrests Neo-Nazi Group Member After Undercover Report on Hitler Birthday Gathering

A man linked to the white supremacist group Active Club England was arrested in the United Kingdom after an undercover investigation by ITV News exposed the organization’s disturbing activities. The group, which presents itself as a sports club, was secretly recorded celebrating Adolf Hitler’s birthday, making Nazi salutes, and joking about the Holocaust. During the covert operation that spanned several months, journalists documented how members were indoctrinating young men with extremist ideologies and preparing for physical combat.

Authorities confirmed the arrest of a 28-year-old man for racially aggravated public order offenses. The group was also shown participating in training sessions involving weapons, reinforcing fears that it could escalate into violent actions. This case has heightened concerns over the growing influence of far-right networks operating under the radar in the UK (12). Law enforcement is continuing to monitor affiliated individuals, and the report has prompted calls for stronger oversight of such extremist cells masquerading as legitimate clubs.

 

BRAZIL

Brazilian Man Arrested for Selling Nazi-Themed Items Online

Brazilian Federal Police arrested a 70-year-old man in Rio de Janeiro’s Botafogo neighborhood for selling Nazi-themed items online, including flags, magazines, coins, and insignias. The arrest followed a tip-off from a non-governmental organization about a website offering Nazi-emblazoned merchandise. Upon investigation, authorities found the suspect in possession of various items bearing swastikas and the imperial eagle, symbols appropriated by the Third Reich. The man faces charges of “apology for Nazism,” a crime in Brazil punishable by up to five years in prison (13).

The case highlights growing concerns over the spread of extremist content through digital platforms. The Brazilian Federal Police referenced a 2022 United Nations resolution condemning Holocaust denial and distortion, emphasizing the role of social media in facilitating such behavior. This incident underscores the challenges authorities face in curbing the online dissemination of hate symbols and ideologies.

 

TAIWAN

Taiwan Condemns Activist for Public Display of Nazi Symbols

Taiwanese political activist Sung Chien-liang caused national and international outrage after arriving at the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office wearing a red Nazi armband, holding a copy of Adolf Hitler’s Mein Kampf, and performing a Nazi salute in front of assembled reporters. Sung, who is leading a Kuomintang (KMT)-endorsed campaign to recall Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator Lee Kuen-cheng, was summoned for questioning over alleged fraud in the signature collection process for the recall (14).

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the use of Nazi imagery, reminding the public that such symbols represent atrocities and genocide, and that they are widely banned and condemned in many countries. Both the German Institute Taipei and the Israel Economic and Cultural Office in Taipei condemned Sung’s actions and thanked Taiwan for its ongoing commitment to historical memory and human rights. While Taiwan does not currently have legislation banning Nazi symbols outright, MOFA emphasized the need for citizens to act responsibly and not harm the country’s international image.

 

AUSTRALIA

White Supremacist Requests One-Year Sentence After Performing Nazi Salute During Trial

In a recent court proceeding in Melbourne, Jacob Hersant, a known white supremacist and member of the National Socialist Network, was found guilty of performing a Nazi salute in public. This act was in direct violation of a newly enacted Victorian law banning Nazi salutes in public spaces (15). During his sentencing, Hersant requested a one-year prison term, which is the maximum penalty under the new legislation. However, the magistrate sentenced him to one month in jail, citing the need to deter such hate-fueled displays.

Hersant’s case marks the first conviction under Victoria’s new law prohibiting Nazi salutes, reflecting the state’s commitment to combating hate speech and extremist behavior. Despite his conviction, Hersant has continued to express extremist views, including posting racist content on social media and participating in public rallies.

 

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in April 2025

In April 2025, a total of 15 incidents related to terrorism and right-wing extremist violence were reported across 10 countries. This reflects an increase compared to the 11 incidents recorded in March, and highlights a wider geographical spread, with events occurring in countries not commonly affected, such as Taiwan and Brazil.

The United States remains the most affected country, with 6 incidents, underscoring the continued and significant threat posed by far-right extremism. The United Kingdom follows with 2 incidents, while Canada, France, Spain, Sweden, Brazil, Australia, and Taiwan each reported 1 incident. This month’s data reflects a diversification in the geographic scope of such violence, suggesting that the threat is increasingly decentralized.

Although some traditional hotspots like Western Europe and North America continue to report recurrent incidents, the appearance of countries like Brazil and Taiwan points to the evolving nature of the extremist threat, which now spans multiple continents. This trend demands a renewed emphasis on international cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and localized prevention strategies, especially as ideologically motivated violence adapts and spreads beyond expected borders.

In April 2025, the most frequent type of incident linked to right-wing extremism was incitement to violence, with 6 documented cases, underscoring the continued use of propaganda and inflammatory discourse to radicalize and mobilize individuals. This marks a continuation of trends observed in previous months, with incitement remaining the primary method of extremist influence.

However, a notable increase in legal and institutional responses is evident this month. Two legal acts were registered, including a significant move by Spain’s Congress, which approved a law to dissolve associations that glorify Francoism. This marks a critical legal step in countering ideological glorification and hate-based historical revisionism, and sets an important precedent in Europe’s battle against far-right narratives.

There were also two arrests, two trials, and two threats of violence, maintaining March’s levels of enforcement and intimidation activity. Importantly, a direct act of violence was recorded this month (compared to none in March), reflecting a worrying resurgence of physical aggression.

The steady volume of judicial proceedings, preventive arrests, and legislative efforts illustrates how governments are increasingly taking action through legal frameworks. Nonetheless, the ongoing incitement and emerging violence indicate that right-wing extremism continues to pose a multi-faceted threat, requiring not only reactive but also preventive and educational measures.

 

In April 2025, the ideological landscape of terrorism and right-wing extremist violence became less diverse, showing a marked consolidation around a few dominant ideologies. The vast majority of incidents—80% combined—were motivated by either Neo-Nazism (40%) or White Supremacy (40%), reaffirming the stronghold these extremist currents maintain in the global far-right movement.

This concentration reflects a worrying entrenchment of radical ideologies that promote racial hatred, antisemitism, and xenophobia. Both Neo-Nazi and White Supremacist movements continue to exploit online platforms and historic fascist symbols to spread propaganda, normalize hate speech, and recruit followers. Their resilience suggests a deeper level of ideological commitment and a growing potential for mobilization and violence.

Meanwhile, generic extreme-right ideologies accounted for 15% of incidents, showing their persistent, if less dominant, presence. The overall decline in ideological variety may indicate a strategic unification around the most virulent and mobilizing narratives, particularly those grounded in racial supremacy. This shift calls for heightened monitoring and targeted counter-narratives to disrupt these core ideologies before they further escalate into organized violence.

 

REFERENCES

AP News. Francia: la ultraderecha reparte folletos racistas en París. https://apnews.com/article/francia-ultraderecha-racismo-folletos-sos-racisme-luminis-paris-ed2f5e450a5f1de0d35d9d011416a576

CNN. . Florida State University shooting: what we know. https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/19/us/florida-state-university-shooting-what-we-know/index.html

ContraRéplica. Saludo nazi durante el juicio: supremacista blanco pide un año de prisión. https://www.contrareplica.mx/nota-Saludo-nazi-durante-el-juicio-supremacista-blanco-pide-un-ano-de-prision-202528415

elDiario.es.  El Congreso aprueba la ley para disolver asociaciones que enaltezcan el franquismo con el apoyo de PP y Vox. https://www.eldiario.es/sociedad/congreso-aprueba-ley-disolver-asociaciones-enaltezcan-franquismo-apoyo-pp-vox_1_12208861.html

KSL.com. . Police probe sign in southern Utah from white supremacist group. https://www.ksl.com/article/51288518/police-probe-sign-in-southern-utah-from-white-supremacist-group

laSexta. Celebraban el cumpleaños de Hitler y bromeaban con el saludo nazi: detienen a miembro de grupo supremacista blanco en Reino Unido. https://www.lasexta.com/noticias/internacional/celebraban-cumpleanos-hitler-bromeaban-saludo-nazi-detienen-miembro-grupo-supremacista-blanco-reino-unido_2025041567fe34d347c02c000146b66a.html

Marca.. Acusan a Harry Redknapp de saludo nazi y llamar “espía alemán” a Tuchel. https://www.marca.com/futbol/futbol-internacional/2025/03/28/acusan-harry-redknapp-saludo-nazi-llamar-tuchel-espia-aleman.html

MSNBC. FSU shooting suspect Phoenix Ikner and links to white supremacy. https://www.msnbc.com/top-stories/latest/fsu-shooting-suspect-phoenix-ikner-white-supremacy-rcna201860

MSNBC. Nikita Casap: neo-Nazi charged in Trump assassination plot. https://www.msnbc.com/top-stories/latest/nikita-casap-neo-nazi-trump-assassination-plot-rcna201228

Radio-Canada. Justicia declara culpable de terrorismo a Patrick Gordon Macdonald. https://ici.radio-canada.ca/rci/es/noticia/2152893/justicia-declara-culpable-de-terrorismo-a-patrick-gordon-macdonald

Swissinfo.ch. El gobierno taiwanés carga contra un activista por portar símbolos nazis en público. https://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/el-gobierno-taiwan%C3%A9s-carga-contra-un-activista-por-portar-s%C3%ADmbolos-nazis-en-p%C3%BAblico/89171354

Swissinfo.ch.  Un detenido en Brasil por vender por internet artículos con simbología nazi. https://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/un-detenido-en-brasil-por-vender-por-internet-art%C3%ADculos-con-simbolog%C3%ADa-nazi/89169007

The County. A newspaper ad promoted a white supremacist book burning in Maine. https://thecounty.me/2025/04/15/news/a-newspaper-ad-promoted-a-white-supremacist-book-burning-in-maine/

The Guardian. Violent far-right groups in Sweden recruit boys via Trump, Musk and the manosphere. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/30/violent-far-right-groups-sweden-recruit-boys-trump-musk-manosphere

The Guardian.  Neo-Nazi group The Base: leader faces Russian spy allegations. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/24/neo-nazi-group-the-base-leader-russian-spy-allegations

The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel. CMU reflects after alleged white supremacist who spoke on campus. https://www.gjsentinel.com/news/cmu-reflects-after-alleged-white-supremacist-who-spoke-on-campus/article_0d0add26-faa9-471e-9cf6-71942fc6bf90.html

Xataka. (2025). Elon Musk realizó un saludo nazi: ahora Suecia tiene un problema: la extrema derecha está captando a niños a su causa. https://www.xataka.com/magnet/elon-musk-realizo-saludo-nazi-ahora-suecia-tiene-problema-extrema-derecha-esta-captando-ninos-a-su-causa