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White Power | Au cœur de l'extrême droite européenne | ARTE

ARTE・51 minutes read

In 2024, extreme right-wing parties have gained significant traction across Europe, driven by issues like migration and societal discontent, leading to a rise in xenophobic rhetoric and violence against perceived internal enemies. This normalization of far-right ideologies has fostered organized movements that pose a growing threat to social cohesion and democratic values, prompting public outcry and protests against their agendas.

Insights

  • The rise of extreme right-wing parties in Europe, particularly in countries like Italy, Hungary, and Germany, has been fueled by a combination of a migratory crisis and increasing voter apathy, leading to a normalization of xenophobic rhetoric that targets groups such as Muslims and sub-Saharan migrants.
  • Personal motivations for individuals to join extremist movements, as explained by former neo-Nazi Axel, often stem from feelings of emptiness and a desire for belonging or power, illustrating that the allure of violent ideologies can be deeply rooted in personal experiences rather than purely political beliefs.
  • The extreme right's tactics include leveraging local incidents to create a national narrative that stokes fear and division, as seen in France where groups use media to amplify their agendas, while public demonstrations against these ideologies indicate a growing resistance and need for organized action against far-right violence.

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Recent questions

  • What is the definition of extremism?

    Extremism refers to the holding of extreme political or religious views that reject the norms of society. It often involves advocating for radical changes or actions that can lead to violence or discrimination against others. Extremists may believe that their ideology is superior and may resort to aggressive tactics to promote their beliefs. This can manifest in various forms, including political extremism, religious extremism, and right-wing or left-wing extremism. The consequences of extremism can be severe, leading to social division, conflict, and a breakdown of community cohesion.

  • How can I combat extremist views?

    Combating extremist views requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, dialogue, and community engagement. First, promoting critical thinking and media literacy can help individuals discern credible information from propaganda. Encouraging open discussions about differing beliefs fosters understanding and reduces polarization. Community programs that promote inclusivity and diversity can also counteract extremist narratives by highlighting the value of different perspectives. Additionally, supporting policies that address social inequalities can mitigate the grievances that often fuel extremist ideologies. It is essential to create safe spaces for dialogue and to challenge hate speech and discrimination whenever they arise.

  • What are the signs of radicalization?

    Signs of radicalization can vary but often include changes in behavior, language, and social circles. Individuals may become increasingly isolated from friends and family, express extreme views, or show a fascination with violence or martyrdom. They might also start to adopt a rigid worldview, seeing issues in black-and-white terms, and may exhibit a strong sense of grievance or victimization. Other indicators include a sudden change in appearance, such as adopting specific symbols or attire associated with extremist groups, and a growing interest in extremist literature or online content. Recognizing these signs early can be crucial for intervention and support.

  • What is the impact of hate speech?

    Hate speech can have profound and damaging effects on individuals and society as a whole. It can incite violence, discrimination, and social division, leading to a climate of fear and hostility among targeted groups. Hate speech undermines social cohesion and can contribute to the normalization of extremist ideologies, making it easier for individuals to justify harmful actions against others. Furthermore, it can have psychological impacts on victims, leading to feelings of alienation, anxiety, and depression. Addressing hate speech through legal frameworks, education, and community initiatives is essential to fostering a more inclusive and respectful society.

  • How do extremist groups recruit members?

    Extremist groups often employ a variety of tactics to recruit members, targeting individuals who may feel marginalized or disenfranchised. They may use online platforms to spread their ideology, creating echo chambers that reinforce extremist beliefs. Recruitment strategies can include offering a sense of belonging, purpose, and identity to individuals who feel lost or disconnected. Additionally, these groups may exploit social grievances, presenting themselves as champions of a cause and promising solutions to perceived injustices. Personal connections, such as friendships or family ties, can also play a significant role in recruitment, as individuals may be drawn in by those they trust.

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Summary

00:00

Rise of Extreme Right in Europe 2024

  • In 2024, extreme right-wing parties have solidified their presence in Europe amid a migratory crisis and rising electoral abstentions, impacting countries like Italy, Hungary, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and Germany.
  • The extreme right's normalization has led to a brutal hierarchy of perceived internal enemies, with Muslims and sub-Saharan migrants replacing Jews in xenophobic rhetoric.
  • Over the past decade, right-wing extremism has escalated, with 35,000 identified extremists in Germany, including 15,000 categorized as violent, according to intelligence reports.
  • Hansorel, Germany's Secretary of State for the Interior, notes a peak in far-right violence in 2015-2016, followed by stagnation at approximately 11 violent incidents per year.
  • Axel, a former neo-Nazi, explains that individuals become extremists due to personal voids, seeking power, belonging, or a sense of injustice, leading to violent ideologies.
  • Philippe Schleffer, another ex-extremist, recounts the arrival of the White Power movement from the U.S. to Germany in the early 1990s, fostering a simplistic worldview of racial superiority.
  • The 2015 migration crisis, where Germany welcomed 1 million refugees, intensified xenophobic discourse, particularly in Eastern regions, revitalizing extreme right electoral support.
  • The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has gained traction, promoting remigration and anti-immigration policies, with claims of 10 million migrants entering Germany since 2015.
  • Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban highlighted blocking 2,700 illegal immigrants in 2024, advocating for security installations and fences to manage immigration effectively.
  • Annetherine Mer, a journalist, emphasizes that neo-Nazi ideologies persist within the AfD, often disguised in respectable appearances, indicating a shift in the far-right's public representation.

22:02

Rise of European Extreme Right Movements

  • Gutz Kubitek, a key figure in the European extreme right, has been active for 30 years, promoting ethnodifferentialism to prevent cultural and ethnic mixing in Europe.
  • The series initiated by Kubitek 16-17 years ago has expanded to 89 volumes, including influential works like Jean Raspail's "The Camp of the Saints," depicting a dystopian future of European extermination.
  • The year 2015 marked a significant rise in right-wing parties in Europe, particularly in Germany, driven by public discontent over mass immigration, primarily of young men, rather than educated families.
  • The concept of remigration, promoted by Austrian influencer Martin Sellner, aims to deport German citizens of foreign origin, echoing historical events like the 1942 Wannsee Conference.
  • Following revelations of a secret meeting in Potsdam, public outrage surged, leading to unprecedented demonstrations against the AFD's ethnic separation and deportation agenda.
  • The AFD's remigration project targets Germans deemed insufficiently assimilated, pushing for their departure under duress, reflecting a broader anti-immigrant sentiment.
  • A survey from the University of Leipzig indicates that 70% of voters in former East Germany believe immigrants seek social aid, reinforcing negative stereotypes about immigration.
  • Brussels, with a population of approximately 1.2 million, has a diverse demographic, where 40% are of foreign nationality, predominantly European, challenging extreme right narratives of overwhelming non-European immigration.
  • The Great Replacement theory, originally targeting Jews, has evolved to encompass broader racial fears, leading to violence and a rise in extremist attacks globally, increasing by 320% in the last decade.
  • The accelerationist movement, emerging since 2015, promotes a racial war narrative, justifying violence against perceived threats to white supremacy, with historical references to figures like Anders Breivik and Brenton Tarrant.

43:42

Rise of Violent Right-Wing Extremism in France

  • French intelligence reports indicate approximately 3,000 violent right-wing extremists in France, with 1,500 under surveillance on Telegram, highlighting the unrestrained violence of the far-right.
  • The far-right groups, including police members, use Telegram to organize and share violent tactics, such as targeting migrant reception centers and discussing body disposal methods.
  • The revolutionary nationalist movement, emerging in the early 2020s, is represented by small groups in France, notably the Union Defense Group (GUD), identifiable by the Celtic cross symbol.
  • François Duprat, a key figure in revolutionary nationalism, views it as neo-fascism, with the Celtic cross emblematic of the violent French far-right movement, New Order.
  • The extreme right in France comprises 8-10% of the population, with significant public support for anti-immigration sentiments, as 58% regret the loss of the French empire.
  • The National Front, founded in 1973, evolved from anti-communism to focus on immigration, with its first campaign in 1978 linking unemployment to immigration.
  • Christian Bouchet, a radical nationalist, transitioned from founding extremist groups to supporting Marine Le Pen's National Front, leveraging his experience for political advancement.
  • The GUD, founded in 1968, re-emerged in 2022 under Marc de Kakré Valmier, demonstrating a resurgence of revolutionary nationalism with public demonstrations in Paris.
  • The student union Roundel, linked to the National Gathering, aims to influence university culture, countering leftist ideologies and recruiting young people to their cause.
  • The normalization of the far-right, particularly through Marine Le Pen's National Gathering, is accelerated by figures like Éric Zémour, reshaping public perception and political dynamics.

01:00:00

Rising Violence and Resistance Against Extremism

  • Approximately 100 individuals, including members of the Oives of Marc de Cakr and grassroots activists, participated in a meeting highlighting the connection between fascist and extreme right politics in France.
  • Marc Dervalier is under judicial control due to violence related to painted city incidents, while Eric Zour's voting intentions decline, reflecting a rise in extreme right violence against institutions and marginalized groups.
  • Notable violent incidents occurred in September 2023, including attempted arson and racist graffiti targeting Arabs and LGBT individuals in Kalaloui, Givor, and Saint-Brilleeux.
  • Thomas P, a deputy from the Left Party France Insoumise, received death threats after requesting a commission of inquiry into the extreme right, highlighting the dangers faced by political figures.
  • On April 29, 2023, far-right groups escalated violence against a migrant reception center in Saint-Brévin, attacking residents and setting fire to the mayor's home without institutional support.
  • The far-right's strategy involves amplifying local incidents to a national level, utilizing media outlets like Current Values and Voltaire to create a narrative that pressures local authorities.
  • Nearly 40 small violent far-right groups operate in France, with few being dissolved, indicating a troubling tolerance for their activities and a need for organized resistance.
  • Lyon is identified as a stronghold for the extreme right, with groups like Popular Lyon led by Bertin promoting violent actions and attempting to broaden their activist base.
  • The prefecture of Rhône is criticized for its inaction against far-right groups, which continue to operate discreetly and evade accountability despite their violent actions.
  • A large-scale demonstration in Lyon against the extreme right showcased widespread public mobilization, emphasizing the urgent need to combat fascist groups and close their meeting places.

01:18:18

Rise of Extreme Right Movements in Europe

  • The text discusses the rise of extreme right movements in Europe, highlighting the solidarity among these groups, the historical context of protests against their ideologies, and the significant public opposition seen in 2002 and 2024.
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