P016 - COVID-19, Conspiracism and Far-Right Extremism

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Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to look into the relationship between Covid 19, conspiracism, and far-right extremism. It also aims to provide light on the possible consequences of such occurrences and incidents. It is obvious that the combination of conspiracism and radicalism could lead to increased unrest or possibly violence. According to research, persons on the extreme left and right are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories than moderates. Such organisations take use of this human need to promote radical ideas by offering their target audience with explanations for terrible events, allowing individuals to preserve convictions and beliefs despite fragility and logical inconsistency. Conspiracy theories are prominent in all forms of extremism.
According to Europol, right-wing extremists have carried out a significant number of terrorist incidents in Europe in recent years, fuelled by a global community that subscribes to and reinforces conspiracy theories and broadcasts calls to violence. Conspiracy theories have been demonstrated to increase antipathy in people, which can lead them to take action to solve perceived wrongdoings or injustices, usually by confronting, beating, or assaulting the subject of their fury. As a result, conspiracy theories have the potential to enhance support for violence. Continuing to believe that powerful hostile others are conspiring to cause violence focused at a specific target.
The paper discusses whether the Far Right is consistently disseminating COVID-related material in an accessible manner through a variety of sources, including casual (e.g., social media), and whether they are targeting specific groups for recruitment goals through these methods, drawing on ethnographic research conducted exclusively among citizens in the United Kingdom (UK). To support primary research, policy planning, and decision making about connected online efforts and policy responses, existing research must be combined, the evidence base must be better understood, and gaps must be filled.

Author

• Ashreet Acharya, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, England