The Rise of Right-Wing Extremism: A Growing Threat in the 21st Century

The rise of right-wing extremism has become a significant global concern in the 21st century. As this form of extremism has grown over recent years, it threatens global security, democracies, and societal harmony. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind its growth, its impact, and the imperative for joint efforts to address this issue.

Understanding Right-Wing Extremism

Right-wing extremism encompasses a broad spectrum of beliefs and ideologies but is often characterized by ultra-nationalism, xenophobia, racism, and authoritarianism. It promotes the idea of a homogeneous and culturally pure nation, often at the expense of minority groups and immigrants. Right-wing extremists may employ violence, terrorism, or radical political actions to achieve their goals.

Anti-Islamic protests in Poland, 2015. (Image source: Wikimedia Commons)

Factors Fueling the Rise

Several interconnected factors have contributed to the alarming growth of right-wing extremism in the 21st century:

Economic Discontent: Economic inequality and uncertainty in many parts of the world have left some segments of society feeling disenfranchised and disempowered. Right-wing extremists exploit these grievances by offering simple, scapegoating narratives that blame minority groups or immigrants for economic woes.
Social Media and Online Communities: The internet and social media platforms have provided fertile ground for right-wing extremist groups to recruit, organize, and radicalize individuals. The echo chambers of extremist online communities amplify and reinforce their beliefs, making it easier to radicalize individuals who might otherwise not have been exposed to such ideologies.
Political Polarization: The increasing polarization of political discourse in many democracies has created an environment where extremist ideologies can thrive. Right-wing extremist groups may find common cause with like-minded politicians or parties, further normalizing their ideas.
Immigration and Identity: Debates over immigration and national identity have become central issues in many countries. Right-wing extremists exploit these debates to promote their exclusionary ideologies, often presenting immigrants and minority groups as a threat to national culture and security.

Manifestations of Right-Wing Extremism

Right-wing extremism can manifest in various ways, from acts of violence to political engagement:

Violence and Terrorism: Some right-wing extremist groups resort to acts of violence and terrorism to advance their agendas. These acts can include hate crimes, bombings, mass shootings, and more. Notable examples include the 2011 Norway attacks by Anders Behring Breivik and the 2019 Christchurch mosque shootings in New Zealand by Brenton Tarrant.
Hate Speech and Propaganda: Online platforms are rife with hate speech, propaganda, and disinformation spread by right-wing extremists. Such content aims to radicalize individuals and sow discord in societies.
Political Engagement: Right-wing extremist parties and politicians have gained traction in various countries. Their agendas often include anti-immigration policies, dismantling multiculturalism, and erosion of democratic institutions.
Lone Wolf Attacks: Many acts of right-wing extremism are carried out by lone individuals who have been radicalized online. These attackers often target minority communities, religious institutions, or public spaces. The 2015 Charleston church shooting by Dylann Roof is a chilling example.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Supreme Court rejects appeal from Dylann Roof of death sentence, conviction in 2015 racist slayings of 9 in Black South Carolina church pic.twitter.com/GdP0KXFyny

— Meg Kinnard (@MegKinnardAP) October 11, 2022

The Global Impact

Right-wing extremism is not confined to a single region; it has a global reach and poses a threat to democracies and social cohesion around the world. Some notable examples of its impact include:

Violence and Loss of Life: Right-wing extremist attacks have claimed the lives of innocent people in countries such as the United States, New Zealand, Germany, Norway, Canada, Italy, and Australia, to name a few.
Social Division: Extremist ideologies exacerbate social divisions and sow discord within societies. They undermine efforts to foster inclusivity and diversity.
Challenges to Democracy: Right-wing extremist movements often seek to undermine democratic institutions and values. They may attempt to infiltrate mainstream politics or engage in voter suppression efforts.

Following the worst mass shooting in New Zealand's history, Prime Minister Jacinda Arden stood before the nation and vowed to never say the gunman's name.

"He may have sought notoriety, but we in New Zealand will give him nothing."pic.twitter.com/CNoHNJb4dQ

— Goodable (@Goodable) July 5, 2022

Countering Right-Wing Extremism

Addressing the rise of right-wing extremism requires a multifaceted approach:

Education and Awareness: Governments, civil society organizations, and educational institutions must work together to raise awareness about the dangers of extremism and promote critical thinking skills that help individuals resist radicalization.
Online Regulation: Social media platforms must take more aggressive measures to combat hate speech and extremist content. Algorithms that promote radicalization should be reevaluated and refined.
Community Engagement: Building resilient communities that reject extremist ideologies is crucial. Community programs, outreach efforts, and support for marginalized groups can help prevent radicalization.
Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies must be well-equipped to monitor and combat extremist activities, both online and offline. This includes cooperation at the international level to track and disrupt extremist networks.
Political Accountability: Political leaders must be held accountable for their rhetoric and actions. Mainstream parties should avoid pandering to extremist ideologies for short-term gains.

The rise of right-wing extremism in the 21st century is a global challenge that demands immediate attention and concerted efforts from governments, civil society, and individuals. By understanding the factors contributing to its growth, recognizing its various manifestations, and taking proactive measures to counteract it, we can work together to mitigate the threat posed by right-wing extremism and uphold the values of tolerance, inclusivity, and democracy.