Extremist groups will use pandemic to advance agenda

Subject

Extremist and far-right activities.

Significance

Extremist far-right groups, fringe networks and militant organisations are actively using the COVID-19 crisis to mobilise support, spread disinformation and conspiracy theories, and incite violence through digital communication channels such as private chatrooms and encrypted messaging apps.

Impacts

• The pandemic will strengthen anti-minority, anti-immigrant and anti-free-movement lobbies in parts of the West.
• Effective crisis management and clear communication from governments would help build public confidence.
• Inflammatory or misleading statements by heads of state will deepen socio-political polarisation.