The Australian Parliament is currently conducting an inquiry to understand the threat posed by extreme right-wing extremism organizations in the country. This investigation is focusing on the rise of right-wing organizations influenced by toxic masculinity, increasing anti-Semitism, and the lack of transparency and fairness in hate crime data.
What is extreme right-wing extremism?
Extreme right-wing extremism refers to individuals or organizations that promote extreme nationalism and often exclude certain groups. These extremists may oppose democratic principles and processes and may include organizations that believe violence is a legitimate means to achieve their goals.
Causes of the rise of extremism
Professor Michele Grossman, the director of the Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies in Melbourne, highlighted evidence showing an increase in extreme ideologies across different age groups due to online social, operational, and financial activities. She stated, „The interaction between the extreme right-wing extremism movement and other dissatisfied ideologies within these organizations is increasing, such as those consistent with conspiracy theories, hate extremism, extreme misogyny, and the polarization influenced by false and misleading political messages, creating an environment of uncertainty, distrust, and resentment.“ Lydia Khalil, co-convener of the Addressing Violent Extremism and Radicalization to Terrorism Network at Deakin University, emphasized that the internet and subsequent social changes have exacerbated the problem. She mentioned that dissatisfaction with democracy and global capitalism has led to increased distrust in democratic governments and institutions. Khalil stated, „Right-wing extremism violence is a significant problem, and the boundary between hate crimes and organized terrorism is often blurred.“
What is right-wing extremism like?
Khalil mentioned that right-wing extremism is present in various racial and community groups in Australia, surpassing the inherent impression of a „white Anglo-Saxon male phenomenon.“ Itamar Livne, representing the Australian Jewish Democratic Society at the inquiry, expressed concerns about the Jewish community being a target of right-wing extremism in Australia. He urged the government to establish a national database and define hate crimes rather than relying on non-profit organizations or volunteers for data. Livne highlighted the increasing anti-Semitism and the presence of right-wing elements within the Jewish community. He stated, „Like other organizations, we are concerned about the activities of right-wing extremists, including their attempts to infiltrate local governments and recruit members, as well as holding high-profile events. Additionally, we are concerned about the connections between some individuals in the Jewish community and Israeli extremism, right-wing organizations, and ideologies.“ Livne emphasized that the Executive Council of Australian Jewry strongly opposes such organizations.
How do they recruit members?
Game platforms are increasingly becoming channels for children and young people to encounter radical ideologies. Additionally, communities influenced by toxic masculinity are attracting more people to join right-wing organizations. Josh Roose, an associate professor at Deakin University, mentioned ongoing work to collaborate with boys and men as they are the main participants in violent extremism. He stated, „We know that anger is a major driver of violent extremism, so we are doing a lot of work, especially in this country… about why men are attracted to these organizations.“ Roose said his research focuses on using toxic masculinity as a recruitment tool and how recruiters use anger and shame to make men believe they can achieve greatness by joining certain organizations and „becoming heroes.“ He emphasized that education can shift the focus to how men can contribute to society and express respect for women, which are crucial steps in addressing potential future grievances that could make right-wing organizations appealing. Rana Ebrahimi, the national manager of the Multicultural Youth Advocacy Network Australia, highlighted the importance of education not only targeting young people but also involving families. She stated, „This is not just about educating young people and preventing young people; it also needs to involve families – especially mothers – because they have always maintained relationships with their children and can see signs of behavioral changes.“
The committee conducting the investigation is expected to release a report in December this year. Stay updated on the latest news by visiting the SBS website or subscribing to their services. With Facebook reducing support for news organizations, it is essential to follow SBS Cantonese programs on their Facebook page for news and information. SBS Chinese provides fair, impartial, and accurate news reporting and current affairs information in both traditional and simplified Chinese. SBS Cantonese and SBS Mandarin have been serving the public for over 40 years. Tune in to the Cantonese program from 9-11 am and the Mandarin program from 7-9 am daily, or listen to live broadcasts, program replays, and other audio content.