Introduction
Why is an organization, claiming to represent US veterans and co-founded by an individual associated with the National Socialist Movement, disseminating conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and the situation in Syria? How does this group collaborate with various foreign intelligence entities while seeking to resonate with Western anti-imperialists? Welcome to the perplexing and sometimes alarming realm of the “red-brown” media ecosystem, where fascist ideologies intersect with both the left and right political spectrums.
The attraction of white supremacists and broader fascist groups towards conspiracy theories is widely recognized. Their support for figures like Assad and the propagation of pro-Russian conspiracies are well documented. However, what’s less understood is fascism’s capability to adapt left-wing aesthetics for infiltration purposes. Alternative media plays a vital role in a thriving society but is also vulnerable to manipulation by state and non-state actors alike. The collaboration of some alternative media outlets with fascist groups, especially in spreading COVID-19 and Syria-related conspiracies, highlights a semi-coordinated network of disinformation and hate. Even organizations with legitimate leftist intentions can inadvertently spread pro-fascist narratives, thereby obscuring the discourse and safeguarding various right-wing geopolitical agendas.
This article is the first in a series of three that delves into the political dynamics and complexities of entities involved in these conspiracies, focusing on their connections, venues, and ideologies, particularly regarding Syria and COVID-19. Part 1 introduces the context and examines the network’s right-leaning segments. Part 2 will explore the most notable and peculiar actors in the purely red-brown sphere. Part 3 will investigate how some of these actors and ideas infiltrate left-leaning media ecosystems, aiming to propose ways towards a stronger, anti-fascist internationalist left that can navigate the challenges of contemporary information warfare.
Understanding ‘Red-Brown’
‘Red-brown’ refers to the unusual blend of fascist and leftist ideologies. While sometimes linked to “horseshoe theory,” this concept has faced criticism, with alternatives being suggested. Notable examples include the National Bolshevik (NazBol) party and Strasserism, but the term encompasses a broader array of ideologies, such as eco-fascism and certain fringe leftist movements’ co-optation by fascist geopolitical projects. Despite its spectrum, the term “red-brown” is increasingly used to describe the fusion of fascist politics with leftist aesthetics.
Syria and COVID Conspiracies
The atrocities committed in Syria by Assad or Russia, like those by the US and various fundamentalist groups, are undeniable. Yet, opinions on the extent of these crimes often reflect political affiliations more than the evidence itself. This divide is especially pronounced in the denial of Assad or Russia’s misdeeds by segments of the left, labeled by some as “alt-imperialism.” The refusal to acknowledge evidence of war crimes, such as the use of chemical weapons, feeds into conspiratorial views on events like the Ghouta attack.
Similarly, within these networks, there’s a consistent pattern of COVID-19 skepticism or denial, often revolving around themes like lockdown measures, bio-weapons, and Bill Gates. Unlike the broader right-wing’s shift towards Sinophobia, these groups tend to adopt pro-Chinese and anti-US stances, challenging the narrative of the US’ handling of the pandemic rather than its factual mismanagement.
The Red-Brown Media Spectrum
This article briefly surveys the complex landscape of alternative media that promotes red-brown ideologies, focusing on the connections between authors and ideas, particularly concerning COVID-19 and Syria conspiracies. It starts with examining far-right websites that exhibit leftist tendencies.
Conclusion
The term ‘red-brown’ encompasses a spectrum of ideologies where fascist elements blend with a range of aesthetic and political causes. This series aims to shed light on the phenomenon, starting with the media’s right-leaning or far-right aspects, to understand the mechanisms of radicalization towards fascism. The subsequent parts will explore the core and influences of red-brown ideologies in more depth, seeking pathways beyond this insidious trend.