Terrorists “continuing to exploit global tensions” notes Europol report

Catherine De Bolle, executive director of Europol, said: “In today’s changing world, terrorist actors are continuously adapting their narratives, outreach and activities in response to the most recent geopolitical and socioeconomic developments. The targeting of young people and their involvement by terrorist groups, including their active role in the production of online propaganda and the planning of attacks, is an increasing concern.”

De Bolle added: “Equally concerning is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other technology by terrorist groups to strengthen their messages and facilitate their operations. Europol and its partners stand resolute to combat these emerging developments through strong partnerships and innovative solutions.”

Further, De Bolle observed: “The EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report underscores the adaptive nature of terrorist threats. Only by leveraging real-time intelligence, fostering cross-border collaboration and employing advanced technologies can we hope to counter these evolving challenges and, in doing so, protect our communities.”

Geopolitical tensions

The 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent military response in Gaza have triggered global reactions. Hamas widely shared propaganda from the initial attack to mobilise jihadist groups globally. Terrorist groups used the high number of civilian casualties to develop propaganda, radicalise individuals and intensify calls for violence.

Hamas used the crisis to secure funding via money transfers, cryptocurrencies and Hawala networks. Some of these transfers potentially came from the EU.

The conflict and the propaganda stemming from it has unified extremist narratives across jihadist, right-wing, left-wing and also anarchist groups, sparking online incitement to violence, particularly targeting Jewish and Israeli interests worldwide. This has amplified anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim tensions within the EU. Regionally, Hezbollah’s confrontations with Israel raise EU security concerns.

The involvement of young people in terrorism-related activities is growing. Terrorist groups increasingly exploit online platforms and gaming environments to reach younger audiences. Disseminating content like videos, music and memes, these groups radicalise individuals and mobilise them for propaganda production, recruitment and even attacks. Further, the radicalisation has sped up. The time taken between initial exposure to extremist content and violent action has significantly decreased.

Increased anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric has heightened societal tensions, resulting in strong polarisation of certain groups. Meanwhile, both jihadist and right-wing extremists have used the Israel-Hamas conflict to promote their narratives and inspire action.

The dual nature of technology emerges when it’s exploited by terrorist groups, which are capitalising on advancements in AI and encrypted communication technologies to further their operations. AI-generated deepfakes are being used for propaganda and disinformation, while encrypted messaging apps provide secure communication channels for planning and recruitment.

Innovation has been used for weaponry, with 3D-printed firearms becoming more popular, particularly so among right-wing extremists.

Jihadist and right-wing terrorism

Jihadist terrorism remains the most significant threat to EU security. In 2023, five of the 14 attempted jihadist attacks were completed. All these were carried out by lone actors, highlighting the challenges of preventing attacks by isolated individuals. Further, these so-called lone actors are well connected via online communities. Most attacks used weapons such as knives and firearms, with perpetrators often radicalised online.

Jihadist propaganda continued to exploit divisions in society and geopolitical events, such as the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, in order to recruit and then radicalise individuals.

Terrorist groups are also leveraging encrypted communications and social media to evade detection, while continuing to disseminate propaganda targeted at vulnerable individuals. Young people are increasingly involved in producing and disseminating propaganda on online networks. 334 individuals were arrested for jihadist-related offences, with young people making up a growing proportion of the total arrests. Detention facilities remain ‘hot spots’ for radicalisation, with some inmates attempting to recruit others. Released prisoners continue to pose a potential security risk.

While only two right-wing terrorist attacks took place in 2023, and both were foiled, the ideological and operational threat posed remains significant. Right-wing extremists, particularly so younger individuals, are increasingly active in online communities, producing propaganda, inciting violence and experimenting with technologies such as 3D printing to create weapons.

Online platforms are used for spreading propaganda, recruiting others and sharing weapon-making instructions, with significant interest in 3D-printed firearms. Arrests included young individuals who were radicalised online and involved in incitement and planning attacks. Narratives including eco-fascism and anti-system rhetoric have gained prominence, combining environmental concerns with extremist ideology.

Left-wing and separatist terrorism

Left-wing and anarchist terrorism accounted for 32 attacks in 2023, mostly targeting property and critical infrastructure. Separatist groups were responsible for the majority of completed attacks. These left-wing and anarchist terrorist groups often align their activities with socio-political grievances, such as anti-capitalist and environmental movements.

Left-wing actors targeted Government buildings, financial institutions and businesses. Support for imprisoned anarchists remained a catalyst for violent acts, as did broader anti-state sentiments. Ethno-nationalist groups remained active, often focusing on regional independence.

*Download the European Union Terrorism Situation and Trend Report 2024