Far-right violence and terrorism – February 2025

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Introduction

In February 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 its 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 February 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, inform policymaking, and encourage international collaboration to counter this growing menace.

 

AUSTRALIA

Australia Sanctions Far-Right Online Network ‘Terrorgram’ for Promoting Extremism

The Australian government has imposed sanctions on ‘Terrorgram,’ a far-right online network known for spreading extremist propaganda and inciting violence. Officials say the network has played a significant role in radicalizing individuals by disseminating white supremacist ideology and sharing manuals for violent attacks. This marks the first time Australia has used its counter-terrorism regulations to sanction an online extremist network, signaling a tougher stance against digital platforms facilitating hate and violence. The government emphasized that extremist networks like Terrorgram pose a direct threat to national security by encouraging acts of terrorism and destabilizing democratic institutions (1).

Australian authorities are working closely with international partners to disrupt the network’s activities and prevent the spread of radical content. Terrorgram, which has been linked to several violent incidents and attempted attacks worldwide, has long been monitored by intelligence agencies for its role in promoting accelerationist ideology—a belief that society should be pushed into chaos to trigger a racial or political uprising.

Australia Introduces Mandatory Jail Sentences for Nazi Salutes and Hate Crimes

Australia has passed strict new hate crime laws that impose mandatory jail terms for displaying hate symbols or performing Nazi salutes. The amendments, approved by parliament on Thursday, mark the country’s toughest legislation against hate crimes to date, following a series of high-profile antisemitic attacks. Under the new laws, individuals convicted of performing a Nazi salute or displaying hate symbols will face a minimum of one year in prison. Additional penalties include a three-year minimum sentence for financing terrorism and six years for committing or planning terrorist acts.

The legislation comes amid a rise in antisemitic incidents, including the discovery of explosives and hate messages in Sydney, the arson of a childcare center near a Jewish school, and an attempted attack on a synagogue in Melbourne. Despite its passage, the legislation has been met with criticism from multiple sides (2). With these amendments, Australia joins other nations in implementing stricter measures to combat hate-driven violence and extremism.

 

UNITED KINGDOM

Elon Musk Accused of Amplifying British Right-Wing Extremist on X

Elon Musk is facing scrutiny for allegedly aiding the spread of content from British right-wing extremist Tommy Robinson on his social media platform, X (formerly Twitter). Robinson, known for his history of anti-Islam rhetoric and links to far-right groups, has seen increased engagement on X since Musk’s takeover, raising concerns that the platform is providing extremists with a broader audience.

Analysts argue that Musk’s changes to content moderation policies—such as reinstating previously banned accounts and limiting moderation efforts—have allowed figures like Robinson to thrive online, potentially fueling hate speech and radicalization. While Musk defends his approach as supporting free speech, advocacy groups argue that it has enabled hate speech and conspiracy theories to spread unchecked. The controversy adds to ongoing concerns about X’s role in amplifying extremism and its impact on global political discourse (3).

White Supremacists Indoctrinate and Train Youth Under the Façade of a Sports Club

In England, a group of white supremacists has been exposed for using a sports club as a front to indoctrinate and train young people in neo-Nazi ideology. Investigations revealed that, under the guise of combat sports and physical training, organizers were instilling hate speech and promoting the radicalization of teenagers and young adults. The group, operating in multiple locations across the UK, held secretive meetings where they spread conspiracy theories, encouraged racial violence, and provided combat training (4). Authorities believe the structure aimed to recruit new followers to strengthen far-right movements in the country.

The case has sparked serious concerns in the UK, where the rise of violent extremism has become an increasing threat in recent years. Security agencies have warned that these recruitment tactics are designed to attract vulnerable youth, offering them a sense of belonging while exposing them to dangerous ideologies. Law enforcement has begun dismantling the network and investigating those responsible, while also warning about the spread of extremist groups operating under seemingly harmless covers. The situation has reignited the debate over the need to strengthen measures against extremism and tighten laws on the dissemination of hate and radicalization in the country

 

UNITED STATES

Proud Boys Lose Legal Battle Over Name to Historic Black Church

A historic Black church in Washington, D.C., has won a legal battle against the far-right extremist group Proud Boys, stripping the group of its ability to use the name (5). The lawsuit, filed by Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, argued that the Proud Boys’ use of the name was linked to violent and racist acts, particularly their vandalism of the church’s property during protests in 2020. A court ruling has now transferred the rights to the name “Proud Boys” to the church, preventing the extremist group from using it for organizational purposes. The decision was hailed as a significant victory against hate groups and a step toward holding violent actors accountable.

The lawsuit was part of broader legal efforts to weaken far-right extremist groups through financial and civil penalties. Legal experts note that the ruling effectively forces the Proud Boys to rebrand or risk further legal consequences if they continue operating under the same name. The church emphasized that this victory is not just about a name but about reclaiming dignity after being targeted by white supremacists.

White Supremacist Leader Convicted of Plot to Destroy Regional Power Grid

A federal jury has found white supremacist leader Brandon Clint Russell guilty of conspiring to destroy energy infrastructure in an attempt to incite unrest and promote his extremist ideology. Russell, a founding member of the neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, was convicted alongside his co-conspirator Sarah Beth Clendaniel for planning to attack multiple power substations in the Baltimore area. Prosecutors argued that the plot was racially motivated, intending to cause widespread chaos and disproportionately impact predominantly Black communities. Evidence presented during the trial included encrypted communications, manifestos, and surveillance of targeted substations.

Authorities disrupted the plot before it could be carried out, preventing what they described as a significant domestic terrorist attack (6). Prosecutors highlighted that Russell and Clendaniel saw crippling the power grid as a means to accelerate societal collapse and advance their white supremacist agenda.

Intelligence Experts Warn of Growing White Supremacist Presence in Utah

Intelligence experts and law enforcement officials have raised concerns about the increasing presence of white supremacist groups in Utah, warning that extremist networks are actively recruiting and expanding their influence in the region. According to experts, groups with white nationalist ideologies have been leveraging social media, encrypted messaging apps, and in-person gatherings to spread propaganda and attract new members (7). Utah, historically viewed as a low-profile location for extremist activity, has become a growing hub for white supremacist recruitment due to its relative anonymity and lower law enforcement scrutiny compared to larger metropolitan areas.

Officials warn that these groups are not only spreading hate speech but are also engaging in criminal activities, including vandalism, intimidation campaigns, and weapons stockpiling. Recent incidents of hate-fueled propaganda distribution and white supremacist graffiti have alarmed local communities.

Right-wing Group Publishes “DEI Watch List” Targeting Federal Workers

A newly published conservative “DEI Watchlist” is targeting federal health workers at agencies like the CDC and NIH, raising concerns about intimidation and political influence over public health institutions. The list, created by right-wing activists, identifies employees involved in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, accusing them of prioritizing identity politics over scientific research and public health policy. The initiative aligns with broader conservative efforts to dismantle DEI programs in government and academia, reflecting a growing political battle over inclusivity and representation in federal agencies.

Critics argue that the watchlist is an attempt to undermine public health expertise and create a chilling effect on professionals advocating for equitable healthcare policies. Health officials warn that targeting these employees could disrupt essential public health work, from pandemic preparedness to addressing racial disparities in healthcare. Meanwhile, supporters of the initiative claim it aims to expose what they see as a leftist agenda infiltrating federal agencies. As tensions rise, concerns are mounting over the potential for harassment and professional repercussions for those named in the list, further fueling the political divide in the U.S. government’s approach to health policy (8).

Neo-Nazi Demonstration in Cincinnati Sparks Outrage and Investigation

A group of masked demonstrators carrying Nazi flags and displaying white supremacist symbols marched through downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, on Saturday, sparking condemnation from local officials and civil rights groups. The demonstrators, dressed in black and covering their faces, chanted racist slogans and displayed banners with antisemitic messages. Videos and images of the march quickly spread online, drawing swift reactions from city leaders, who denounced the gathering as an act of hate aimed at intimidating the community. The Cincinnati Police Department confirmed they were monitoring the situation and investigating whether any laws were broken during the demonstration (9).

The incident is part of a growing trend of public displays by extremist groups across the United States, with experts warning of a resurgence in far-right activity. Civil rights organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center, have called for stronger measures to prevent such demonstrations, emphasizing the potential for these events to escalate into violence. Cincinnati’s mayor and Ohio’s governor both condemned the march, reaffirming their commitment to combating hate and ensuring the safety of all residents. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are working to identify those involved in the demonstration.

 

SPAIN

Spanish Court Confirms Three-Year Sentence for Far-Right Extremist for Hate Speech and Holocaust Denial

A Spanish court has upheld a three-year prison sentence for a far-right extremist convicted of hate speech, Holocaust denial, and incitement to violence against minority groups. The defendant, whose identity remains undisclosed, had spread neo-Nazi propaganda through social media and public gatherings, openly denying the Holocaust and promoting white supremacist ideology.

The ruling follows Spain’s strict laws against hate speech and the glorification of extremist ideologies, reinforcing the country’s stance against the rise of far-right radicalism (10). The court determined that the individual’s messages posed a clear risk of inciting violence and discrimination against Jewish communities and other minorities.

 

FRANCE

French Far-Right Leader Cancels U.S. Speech Over Bannon’s Nazi Gesture

Jordan Bardella, leader of France’s far-right National Rally party, has canceled his planned speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in the U.S. after former Trump adviser Steve Bannon made a gesture that some interpreted as a Nazi salute. The incident occurred during Bannon’s speech, where he repeatedly shouted “fight, fight, fight” while extending his right arm with fingers pointed and palm down. Bardella, widely considered a future presidential contender in France, issued a statement explaining his withdrawal, saying he could not participate in an event featuring a “gesture referring to Nazi ideology” (12).

Bannon has strongly denied the accusations, dismissing them as a misrepresentation by the media. He insisted the gesture was simply a “wave,” similar to one he made during a speech for Bardella’s party in France years ago. His explanation has been echoed by Romanian far-right leader George Simion, who argued that historians would recognize the difference between Bannon’s motion and a Nazi salute. The controversy highlights the growing tensions within global far-right movements and their efforts to distance themselves from extremist imagery, especially as CPAC continues to be dominated by Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement.

 

ITALY

Placebo’s Lead Singer to Face Trial for Calling Giorgia Meloni a ‘Fascist and Nazi”

Brian Molko, the lead singer of the British band Placebo, is set to face trial in Italy after referring to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni as a “fascist and Nazi” during a concert in Turin in July 2023 (13). The comment, made in front of thousands of fans, quickly gained media attention and led to legal action under Italy’s defamation laws.

Prosecutors in Turin argue that Molko’s remarks constitute public defamation against a government official, a charge that can carry significant fines or even jail time under Italian law. The case has fueled debates on freedom of expression, particularly regarding criticism of political figures in Italy. The trial comes at a time when Meloni’s government has been accused of adopting nationalist and right-wing policies reminiscent of Italy’s past.

 

SWEDEN

Sweden Moves to Tighten Gun Laws Following Örebro Mass Shooting

In response to the recent mass shooting in Örebro, where a gunman opened fire at a shopping center, killing seven people and injuring several others, the Swedish government has announced plans to tighten its gun laws. The tragic attack, which authorities suspect was motivated by far-right extremism, has reignited debates on firearm regulations and the growing presence of violent extremist groups in Sweden (14). Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson stated that the new measures aim to curb access to high-powered firearms and increase penalties for illegal gun possession. Additionally, the government is considering stricter background checks and expanded police authority to conduct searches in suspected criminal networks.

The Örebro attack marks one of the deadliest shootings in Sweden’s recent history and has intensified calls for action against rising gun violence linked to both gang activity and extremist ideologies. While Sweden has historically had stringent gun control compared to other countries, officials now argue that additional reforms are necessary to prevent future attacks. Some opposition parties and civil rights groups have raised concerns about potential overreach in the proposed laws, particularly regarding police surveillance powers. However, government officials insist that these measures are essential to ensuring public safety in the wake of growing security threats.

 

Graphical Analysis of Far-Right Terrorism in February 2025

In February 2025, 14 incidents linked to right-wing extremist violence were reported across seven countries. This marks a significant increase in the geographical spread compared to January 2025, when only three countries were affected. The resurgence of incidents across multiple European nations highlights the transnational nature of right-wing extremist activity and the continued risks posed by these groups.

The United States remains the most affected country, with five incidents, reflecting the entrenched presence of far-right extremism and its ongoing security challenges. Meanwhile, Spain and the UK each reported two incidents, emphasizing the persistence of extremist threats in Western Europe. Australia, which was previously a key hotspot, also saw two incidents this month, maintaining its status as a country of concern.

The expansion in affected countries suggests a worrying trend of ideological dissemination and cross-border radicalization, requiring heightened vigilance. The spread of incidents beyond the usual hotspots reinforces the importance of international cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and localized counter-extremism efforts. While the overall number of incidents remains comparable to January, the wider distribution indicates that the challenge is no longer confined to a few key regions but a growing and decentralized threat across multiple nations.

Throughout February 2025, incidents linked to right-wing extremism exhibited a diverse range of manifestations, highlighting both direct violence and institutional responses. Trials remained the most reported category, demonstrating continued legal efforts to prosecute individuals involved in extremist activities. This underscores the judicial system’s role in addressing far-right threats, reflecting ongoing attempts to dismantle networks and hold perpetrators accountable.

At the same time, threats of violence and incitement to violence were also prominent, pointing to the persistence of extremist rhetoric and intimidation tactics. Additionally, legal acts and legislation proposals featured this month, indicating that some governments are taking proactive steps to counter extremism through policy measures. The presence of acts of violence, although lower in number than trials, highlights the continued operational capacity of extremist actors, requiring sustained counterterrorism vigilance.

In February 2025, the ideological landscape of right-wing extremist violence saw a notable increase in Neo-Nazi activity, which accounted for most of incidents, reinforcing the continued influence of historical fascist and white supremacist narratives. This sharp presence underscores the resurgence of neo-fascist networks and their efforts to recruit and mobilize supporters through online radicalization and public demonstrations.

Notably, Anti-Immigration sentiment saw an increase, demonstrating how demographic anxieties and migration policies continue to be exploited by far-right actors. This reflects a broader trend of far-right groups mobilizing around perceived threats to national identity, often targeting immigrant communities through hate speech and violence.

Meanwhile, smaller but still significant ideological drivers such as Francoist, Anti-Islam, White Nationalism, Anti-Semitism, and Fascism indicate a diversified threat landscape, where historical authoritarian legacies and contemporary hate movements intersect. The persistence of anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric remains concerning, particularly as these narratives have been linked to both online radicalization and real-world attacks.

 

REFERENCES

Almería Hoy. Confirmada la condena de tres años y seis meses por apología del franquismo. https://www.almeriahoy.com/2025/02/confirmada-la-condena-de-tres-anos-y.html

BBC News. Brandon Drenon. French far-right leader cancels speech, accusing Bannon of ‘Nazi’ gesture. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2glydm3gmo

BBC News. K. Ewe. Mandatory jail for Nazi salutes under new Australia laws. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8x98z0kvlo

CNN. A. Elassar. Cincinnati neo-Nazi rally draws backlash after flags displayed. https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/08/us/cincinnati-ohio-nazi-flags/index.html

Deutsche Welle. B. Maass. Is Elon Musk aiding a British right-wing extremist? https://www.dw.com/en/is-elon-musk-aiding-a-british-right-wing-extremist/a-71440001

KMVU Fox 26. C. Sida. Intelligence experts warn white supremacist groups expanding presence in Utah. https://kmyu.tv/news/local/intelligence-experts-warn-white-supremacist-groups-expanding-presence-in-utah

LaSexta. Reclutamiento neonazi en Inglaterra: supremacistas blancos adoctrinan y entrenan a jóvenes bajo la fachada de un club deportivo. https://www.lasexta.com/noticias/internacional/reclutamiento-neonazi-inglaterra-supremacistas-blancos-adoctrinan-entrenan-jovenes-fachada-club-deportivo_2025021267ad12b8500f9600010b707c.html

Reuters. Australian Sanctions Office. Australia hits right-wing online network ‘Terrorgram’ with sanctions. https://www.reuters.com/business/media-telecom/australia-hits-right-wing-online-network-terrorgram-with-sanctions-2025-02-02/

Swissinfo. El cantante del grupo musical Placebo será procesado por llamar “fascista y nazi” a Meloni. https://www.swissinfo.ch/spa/el-cantante-del-grupo-musical-placebo-ser%C3%A1-procesado-por-llamar-%22fascista-y-nazi%22-a-meloni/88888137

The Guardian. R. Luscombe. Proud Boys group loses name to Black church. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/04/proud-boys-group-lose-name-to-black-church

The New York Times. Broad, W. J. DEI watchlist targets federal health workers at CDC, NIH. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/05/us/politics/dei-watchlist-federal-health-workers-cdc-nih.html

The New York Times. Erlanger, S. Sweden debates tightening gun laws amid extremist threats. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/07/world/europe/sweden-gun-laws.html

U.S. Department of Justice. White supremacist leader found guilty of conspiring to destroy regional power grid. https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/pr/white-supremacist-leader-found-guilty-conspiring-destroy-regional-power-grid