Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The Nordic Resistance Movement (NRM) is a Scandinavian neo-Nazi organization that promotes a violent, National Socialist ideology, supported by a hijacking of Nordic religious symbolism. The article examines how the NRM reinterprets pre-Christian mythology and symbols, such as runes and Viking myths, to legitimize ideas of racial superiority and motivate its followers to take violent action. The NRM not only distorts Nordic spirituality, but uses this symbolism to construct an exclusive racial identity and a form of heroic “sacrifice” that justifies violence against ethnic minorities and political opponents. In addition, the article highlights the transnational impact of the NRM, noting its links to other extremist groups and its designation as a terrorist organization by the United States Department of State. This designation reflects global concerns about right-wing extremism and the associated security risks. The misuse of religious symbols amplifies the risk of radicalization and violence among disillusioned youth, drawing them towards violent ethnic nationalism. The article also offers an analysis of international efforts to counter violent extremism and the need for expanded cooperation to combat this threat.
Source: Romanian Military Thinking
Author: Iulian DINULESCU
Institution: National Intelligence Academy
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4410447264