Far-right violence and terrorism – December 2024

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Introduction

In December 2024, 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 December 2024, 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 promoting international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

GERMANY

Frankfurt Court Overturns Decision, Orders Trial for Former Nazi Guard

A court in Frankfurt has reversed an earlier decision that had halted the prosecution of a former Nazi concentration camp guard, now 98 years old. The individual, whose name has not been disclosed, is accused of being complicit in the murder of thousands of prisoners during World War II while serving at the Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Prosecutors allege that the former guard knowingly aided in the camp’s systematic killing of inmates, including Jewish prisoners, political opponents, and other targeted groups (1).

Initially, legal proceedings were suspended on the grounds of the defendant’s advanced age and health concerns. However, the Frankfurt court has now ruled that the former guard is fit to stand trial, as long as proceedings are adjusted to accommodate his medical needs. This decision reflects Germany’s continued commitment to bringing former Nazi collaborators to justice, even decades after the Holocaust. If convicted, the accused faces potential sentencing, though experts note that his age may impact the enforcement of any prison term.

German Football Match Marred by Nazi Chant During Moment of Silence

A football match in Magdeburg, Germany, was disrupted when a spectator shouted a Nazi slogan during a minute of silence held to honor the victims of the Holocaust and other atrocities. The incident took place before the start of the second-division game between 1. FC Magdeburg and FC St. Pauli. The chant was heard clearly across the stadium, drawing immediate condemnation from fans, officials, and politicians. The moment of silence was organized as part of a broader initiative across German football leagues to promote remembrance and reject hatred.

Following the incident, the individual responsible for the chant was swiftly identified and expelled from the stadium. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the case, and charges related to hate speech and glorification of Nazism are expected. German Football Association (DFB) officials have expressed deep concern over the rise of far-right provocations in sports events (2). FC St. Pauli, known for its strong stance against racism and far-right extremism, called for stricter measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The incident has reignited a national debate about extremism in sports venues and the need for enhanced efforts to combat it.

ITALY

Neo-Nazi Terrorist Group in Italy Dismantled for Plotting Attack on Giorgia Meloni

Italian authorities have dismantled a neo-Nazi terrorist cell accused of planning an attack on Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The group, “Ordine di Hagal,” was uncovered during a large-scale operation involving counter-terrorism units across Italy. Members of the organization had allegedly been amassing weapons, including explosives, and were actively recruiting followers to further their extremist agenda. Investigators revealed that the group’s ideology was rooted in white supremacy, antisemitism, and a hatred of democratic institutions, with the ultimate goal of inciting widespread violence and destabilizing the government.

In addition to plotting an attack on Meloni, “Ordine di Hagal” was also found to be promoting racial hatred and neo-Nazi propaganda, both online and in local communities (3). Authorities arrested several individuals connected to the group, including its leader, who was reportedly coordinating plans to target political figures and minority groups. The investigation into the cell had been ongoing for months, with intelligence agencies closely monitoring the group’s communications and activities. Italy’s interior minister praised the operation, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance against far-right extremism in the country.

UNITED STATES

Far-Right Influencer Nick Fuentes Faces Lawsuit for Assaulting Journalist

Far-right influencer Nick Fuentes is facing a civil lawsuit in Los Angeles, accused of assaulting journalist Amanda Diaz during a protest in June 2023. Diaz alleges that Fuentes, known for his extremist rhetoric and association with white nationalist groups, intentionally hit her with a megaphone while she was covering the demonstration. Diaz claims that the assault was part of a deliberate effort by Fuentes to intimidate members of the press and hinder media coverage of the event. Her lawsuit seeks compensation for physical injuries and emotional distress resulting from the incident (4).

According to court records, Diaz’s legal team argues that Fuentes used his online platform to spread inflammatory rhetoric against journalists, contributing to an increasingly hostile environment at the protest. Witnesses corroborate Diaz’s account, stating that Fuentes engaged in aggressive behavior before the altercation. Fuentes has denied the allegations, claiming the incident was unintentional. Known for his involvement in far-right circles and controversial public appearances, Fuentes’ legal troubles add to growing concerns about the rise of violence and harassment toward journalists by extremist figures. If found liable, Fuentes could face significant financial damages.

Co-founder of White Supremacist Group RAM to Be Freed After Serving Prison Term

Robert Rundo, the co-founder of the white supremacist group Rise Above Movement (RAM), is set to be released from prison after serving time for his role in orchestrating violent clashes at political rallies across California. Rundo, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to riot, was known for leading RAM, a group that promoted itself as a nationalist fight club, with members engaging in hand-to-hand combat training and organized violence at rallies (5). The group gained notoriety in 2017 for participating in multiple violent demonstrations, including the Huntington Beach and Berkeley protests, where they targeted counter-protesters.

RAM’s activities were part of a broader effort to recruit young men into extremist ideologies, often using social media to glamorize violence and white supremacy. Federal prosecutors initially sought harsh penalties for Rundo and his associates, citing the group’s intent to incite violence and propagate hate. While Rundo’s upcoming release marks the end of his prison term, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant about RAM’s potential influence.

AUSTRALIA

Melbourne Synagogue Attack to be Investigated as a Terrorist Incident

Australian authorities announced that the attack on a synagogue in Melbourne over the weekend will be investigated as a potential terrorist act. The incident occurred when an unidentified man attempted to ram his vehicle into the front gates of the synagogue during a religious service. Fortunately, no one was injured in the attack, but the community remains on high alert following the violent act. Police reported that the suspect was arrested on the scene, and initial investigations suggest that his actions were driven by extremist ideologies.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the incident, affirming that “there is no place for hatred or violence against religious communities in Australia”(6). Authorities are working closely with counter-terrorism units to uncover any potential links the suspect may have to extremist groups. Community leaders have called for increased security measures around places of worship.

UNITED KINGDOM

Neo-Nazi Cavan Medlock Found to Have Planned Terror Attack on Immigration Law Firm

A London court has determined that Cavan Medlock, a self-proclaimed Nazi sympathizer, prepared a terrorist attack targeting a prominent immigration law firm. Medlock, who carried a knife and Nazi flag into Duncan Lewis Solicitors’ office in September 2020, attempted to take the firm’s head of immigration law hostage. During the attack, he threatened staff, used racist language, and expressed admiration for Adolf Hitler. The incident was disrupted when staff subdued him before police arrived. Medlock later admitted during police interviews that he intended to use the hostage situation and Nazi symbols as a “rallying cry” for nationalists, fueled by his belief in an ongoing “white genocide” and dissatisfaction with immigration policies (7).

The attack sparked concern within the legal community, leading senior lawyers to demand that government officials, including then-Home Secretary Priti Patel, reconsider inflammatory rhetoric towards immigration lawyers. Prosecutors described Medlock’s act as a calculated attempt to intimidate both the public and legal professionals. While not a formal conviction due to Medlock’s mental health issues, the court’s factual finding highlights the dangers posed by right-wing extremism in the UK. Medlock remains in custody pending a judge’s decision on how he should be detained to protect public safety.

SWITZERLAND

Switzerland Considers Nazi Symbol Ban Amid Rising Antisemitism Concerns

Switzerland is moving toward the possible prohibition of Nazi symbols, including the swastika and the Hitler salute, in public spaces following a significant rise in antisemitic incidents across the country. The Swiss government on Friday requested parliament to draft legislation aimed at criminalizing the display of Nazi imagery and gestures in public, emphasizing the urgent need to curb hate speech and protect minority communities. If passed, the law would align Switzerland with neighboring countries like Germany, Austria, and France, which have long-standing bans on such symbols due to their Nazi pasts (8).

This legislative push comes in response to a reported surge in far-right activities and incidents targeting Jewish communities in Switzerland. The Federal Council noted that while existing laws address hate crimes and Holocaust denial, they do not explicitly prohibit Nazi symbols. Jewish organizations have welcomed the proposal, calling it a critical step toward ensuring safety and dignity for the Jewish population. Parliament is expected to debate the draft law in the coming months, with many anticipating broad political support for the measure.

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in December 2024

In December 2024, there were eight reported incidents linked to terrorism and right-wing extremist violence across six countries. These events occurred in the United States, Germany, and in single instances in the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, and Australia, highlighting the ongoing global threat posed by far-right extremism.

The map illustrates the geographical distribution of these incidents, showing a concentration in Western democracies, with the United States and Germany experiencing multiple events. This reflects the persistent and transnational nature of far-right extremism, which continues to manifest in diverse political contexts, from established democracies like the UK and Switzerland to countries with complex socio-political landscapes like Italy.

This distribution suggests that while far-right extremism continues to be rooted in familiar ideologies and contexts, it is also capable of spreading to different regions, influenced by localized social, economic, and political conditions. As we move forward, understanding the cross-border connections and ideological adaptability of these groups will be critical to developing effective prevention and response strategies.

Throughout December 2024, there has been a notable increase in the number of trials related to far-right extremism, surpassing other categories of incidents this month. The prominence of trials reflects the ongoing efforts by authorities to bring perpetrators of previous acts of extremist violence to justice, highlighting the judicial system’s role in countering the far-right threat.

In addition to trials, December also witnessed two acts of violence and two instances of incitement to violence. The recurrence of violent acts demonstrates the persistent operational capabilities of extremist groups, while incidents of incitement underscore the ideological strategies employed to provoke further unrest and recruit new followers.

One significant legislative development this month is Switzerland’s consideration of a Nazi symbol ban, driven by growing concerns over rising antisemitism. This legislative proposal marks a proactive effort to prevent the public display of hate symbols, aiming to curb the normalization of far-right extremist ideologies in public spaces.

In December 2024, far-right extremist violence was primarily driven by Neo-Nazi and Nazi-inspired ideologies. These beliefs, rooted in racial hatred, antisemitism, and authoritarian ideals, continue to pose a significant threat to social cohesion. The influence of these ideologies remains widespread, as extremist groups exploit historical narratives to fuel division and justify violent actions. This highlights the persistent danger of ideologies that glorify past regimes and seek to undermine democratic values.

Antisemitism also played a central role in extremist incidents this month, with targeted actions against Jewish communities drawing concern. Rising antisemitic rhetoric has led several countries to consider legislative measures, such as Switzerland’s proposed ban on Nazi symbols. This response reflects growing recognition of the ideological threats posed by far-right extremism and the importance of legal frameworks in addressing hate-driven violence.

Alongside Neo-Nazi and antisemitic ideologies, white supremacy and anti-immigration rhetoric were also present, though to a lesser extent. These ideologies focus on deepening racial divides and targeting vulnerable communities, particularly immigrants. While not as prominent as other ideologies this month, their continued presence underscores the diverse and evolving nature of far-right extremism, emphasizing the need for sustained, multifaceted efforts to counter these threats.

Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in 2024

Throughout 2024, the threat posed by far-right terrorism and extremist violence remained consistent, with incidents reported across each month. Peaks in activity were observed during June, July and August, when the highest number of incidents occurred, reflecting potential seasonal or event-driven escalations. These mid-year surges highlight periods where extremist groups were particularly active.

The first half of the year saw a steady rise in incidents, beginning in January and peaking in early summer. This period was marked by a mix of violent attacks, incitements, and arrests, indicating the broad spectrum of tactics used by extremist groups. While incidents slightly declined in the latter half of the year, November stood out with a noticeable increase, driven by significant violent acts and organized threats in multiple regions.

Despite a reduction in incidents toward the end of the year, the data underscores the persistent nature of far-right extremism. The fluctuations in activity levels throughout 2024 reveal that extremist groups continue to adapt and respond to changing political, social, and legal environments. This trend reinforces the urgent need for sustained international cooperation, proactive prevention measures, and comprehensive strategies to counter this evolving threat effectively.

In 2024, far-right extremist incidents were predominantly concentrated in North America, Europe, and Oceania. North America saw the highest levels of activity, driven primarily by events in the United States, while Europe experienced significant incidents across multiple countries, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and France. Oceania, with Australia as the key hotspot, reported notable activity, reflecting rising nationalist and anti-immigration sentiment. In contrast, South America and Asia recorded fewer incidents, though their presence signals the expanding influence of far-right ideologies globally.

At the country level, the United States stood out with the largest number of incidents, far surpassing other nations with 76 registered incidents. Germany followed, reflecting persistent extremist activity despite its strict anti-Nazi laws; while Australia also reported high levels of far-right violence, underscoring growing domestic tensions. Other countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Spain reported moderate levels of activity, while Argentina and Canada marked the spread of far-right extremism into regions traditionally less affected by such movements.

REFERENCES

AP News. “Influencer ultraderechista Nick Fuentes enfrenta cargos por rociar a una mujer con gas lacrimógeno.” 7 de diciembre de 2024. https://apnews.com/article/eeuu-fuentes-influencer-agresion-demanda-juicio-e8462b806c28f5a2594005ff034f27c1.

Barron’s. “Switzerland Eyes Nazi Symbols Ban Due To Surge In Anti-Semitism.” 13 de diciembre de 2024. https://www.barrons.com/news/switzerland-eyes-nazi-symbols-ban-due-to-surge-in-anti-semitism-2aa17121.

BBC. Casciani, Dominic. “Court finds neo-Nazi Cavan Medlock planned attack at law firm.” 11 de diciembre de 2024. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy8977xy2g2o.

CNN Newsource. “Investigarán el ataque a la sinagoga de Melbourne como un incidente terrorista.” KTVZ, diciembre de 2024. https://ktvz.com/cnn-spanish/2024/12/09/investigaran-el-ataque-a-la-sinagoga-de-melbourne-como-un-incidente-terrorista/.

EL PAÍS. Domínguez, Alba. “Desmantelado en Italia un grupo terrorista neonazi que quería atentar contra Giorgia Meloni.” 4 de diciembre de 2024. https://elpais.com/internacional/2024-12-04/desmantelado-en-italia-un-grupo-terrorista-neonazi-que-queria-atentar-contra-giorgia-meloni.html.

El Correo. Mateos, Javier. “Grita un lema nazi en un partido en Alemania durante el minuto de silencio por el atentado de Magdeburgo.” 24 de diciembre de 2024. https://www.elcorreo.com/deportes/futbol/grita-lema-nazi-partido-alemania-minuto-silencio-magdeburgo-20241224111322-nt.html.

Infobae. “Un Tribunal de Frankfurt revocó la decisión de no procesar a un ex guardia nazi.” 3 de diciembre de 2024. https://www.infobae.com/america/mundo/2024/12/04/un-tribunal-de-frankfurt-revoco-la-decision-de-no-procesar-a-un-ex-guardia-nazi/.

Los Angeles Times. Mejía, Brittny. “Co-founder of California white supremacist group to be freed.” 13 de diciembre de 2024. https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-12-13/cofounder-of-california-white-supremacist-group-ram-to-be-freed.