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Migration and Home Affairs

The danger of nationalist extremism in Europe: The “Defend Salonica” case in Greece

Description

This article examines the extremist group “Nationalist Youth of Thessaloniki”, also known as Defend Salonica, which was dismantled by Greek police after involvement in racist violence, recruitment of minors, and other criminal acts. It analyses the group’s structure, ideology, and activities, including its use of online platforms and nationalist narratives that blend contradictory symbols. The piece also discusses challenges in how Greek authorities and media frame such groups — often as criminal rather than extremist — which may hinder effective counter-extremism responses.

Related topic

Types of radicalisation and emerging threats

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