Right-Wing Terrorism in Europe

This Note presents an analysis of right-wing terrorism in Europe. It considers the phenomenon of right-wing terrorism — its methods, aims, and prospects. It examines the right-wing or neo-Nazi/neo-fascist organizations presently active in Italy, West Germany, and France. It analyzes the origins of recent violent right-wing activity and touches on the recent historical background of these groups, their ideology and mindset, targeting and modus operandi, international connections, and their possible effect on U.S. interests. The likely future actions of right-wing terrorists cannot be predicted, but it can be said at this time there seems to be no danger that right-wing terrorists can actually "take over" anywhere. But they can — and do — create a climate that has destabilizing effects on the countries in which they operate and therefore on the NATO alliance as well; thus, they pose an indirect danger to the security of the United States.