The Nordic Resistance Movement (NMR) is a pan-Nordic neo-Nazi organization that operates across Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland. Its primary aim is to overthrow existing democratic governments to establish a National Socialist state exclusively for individuals of Northern European descent. The group is staunchly anti-Semitic, praises Adolf Hitler, and actively opposes immigration and multiculturalism, engaging in both political activities and violent actions to achieve its goals.
Founding and Evolution
The NMR originated from the Swedish Resistance Movement (Svenska Motståndsrörelsen or SMR), which was established by Klas Lund, a convicted murderer with deep ties to Sweden’s white power movement. The SMR evolved from National Youth (Nationell ungdom), which itself sprang from the Independent Young Nationalists formed in 1995. These early groups were inspired by militant fascist movements and other contemporary white supremacist organizations like the National Alliance in the United States.
Ideology and Objectives
The NMR is dedicated to creating a pan-Nordic state comprising Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and potentially the Baltic countries. They seek to halt all non-Nordic immigration and repatriate people not of Northern European descent. The group is staunchly
anti-Semitic, praises Adolf Hitler, and glorifies historical fascist leaders. They engage in both political activities and violent actions, viewing themselves as warriors in a racial struggle.
Organizational Structure
The NMR is highly organized, with each country divided into regional units called Nests, led by a Nest Chief. These Nests are further divided into smaller groups focused on various forms of activism and training. The group’s leadership includes a supreme leader and several realm councils responsible for different aspects of their operations, such as propaganda and militant activities.
Terrorist Activities and Crimes
Over the years, the NMR has been involved in numerous criminal activities and violent incidents, arguably solidifying their status as a genuine terrorist organization:
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Bombings and Attacks: In 2017, three NMR members were convicted for a series of bombings in Gothenburg, Sweden. These attacks targeted a left-wing café and two refugee centers, resulting in severe injuries and highlighting the group’s willingness to use violence.
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Violent Demonstrations: The NMR has staged several violent demonstrations. In 2017, a march in Gothenburg led to clashes with counter-demonstrators and numerous arrests. The march, controversially held on Yom Kippur, was initially planned to pass near a synagogue.
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Attacks on Migrants and Political Opponents: NMR members have attacked migrants and political opponents on multiple occasions. In 2024, masked members attacked an EU migrant camp in Stockholm, and in another incident, they disrupted a left-wing event, injuring several participants.
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International Terrorist Connections: The NMR has connections with other extremist groups, notably the Russian Imperial Movement (RIM), which provided military training to NMR members. These ties have facilitated the exchange of tactics and reinforced their militant capabilities.
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Political Maneuvering and Bans: Although the NMR registered as a political party in Sweden in 2015, they have struggled to gain significant electoral success. Their political efforts are often overshadowed by their extraparliamentary activities and violent methods. Finland banned the organization in 2017, citing its violent activities and ideological extremism, yet the NMR continues to operate clandestinely.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the NMR has continued to draw attention for its violent activities. For instance, in 2024, a former member attacked children in Finland due to their ethnic background, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by individuals associated with the group. Internationally, the group has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, reflecting the global concern over their activities.
The NMR remains a potent symbol of neo-Nazi terrorism in Scandinavia, with a track record of violence and extremist activities that continue to pose a significant threat to public safety and democratic values in the region.
2 Comments
Anyone know who took that photograph?
What rifle is that in the black and white pic? FAL?