The concept of eco-fascism traces its roots back to the environmentalist inclinations of historical National Socialism and the neo-Malthusian authorities of the 1960s and 70s, highlighting the intersection between extreme right ideologies and environmental concerns. This term, laden with complexity and controversy, has gained attention in recent years, particularly following its mention in manifestos related to terrorist acts in Christchurch and El Paso. The perpetrator of the Christchurch attack self-identified as an “Ethno-nationalist Eco-fascist,” advocating for ethnic autonomy and the preservation of nature.
Despite its visibility, eco-fascism remains a marginal movement without significant influence on mainstream or even radical right politics. The broader radical right’s engagement with environmental issues is varied, spanning from anti-liberal to anti-democratic perspectives. While some may simply celebrate national landscapes and the connection between land and people, eco-fascists explicitly link racial survival to environmental conservation, often using arguments against overpopulation and immigration as part of their narrative.
The examination of eco-fascism reveals insights into the radical right’s approach to environmentalism, highlighting the need to understand these nuances. The Greenline Front (GLF), a notable eco-fascist group that has since disbanded, exemplified these tendencies through its international presence and ideological stance. GLF leveraged symbols like the life rune and the Black Sun in their branding, emphasizing a connection to nature and national identity through an anti-anthropocentric, nationalist movement. Their ideology, which incorporates elements of veganism and animal liberation, alongside references to figures associated with Nazi environmental policies, positions them firmly against democratic principles, advocating for violence in pursuit of their goals.
GLF’s activism, which included environmental clean-ups and tree planting, represents a form of direct action within the eco-fascist framework. However, fluctuating levels of public engagement and the eventual disbandment of GLF chapters highlight the challenges such groups face in sustaining momentum.
In conclusion, while groups like GLF may not have a lasting impact, their existence underscores the intersection of radical right ideologies with environmental concerns. This relationship prompts a reevaluation of environmentalism, suggesting that even mainstream and left-wing environmentalist narratives can unintentionally replicate eco-fascist themes, emphasizing the need for a critical examination of environmentalist ideology to avoid exclusionary or nationalist implications.