Young Boys Targeted by Violent Far-Right Groups in Sweden

By Miranda Bryant in Deje, Värmland
Published on March 30, 2025

Concerns are mounting in Sweden as violent far-right groups increasingly recruit boys as young as ten. The trend has emerged amid a backdrop of rising extremism and online radicalization, which has captured the attention of sociologists and researchers alike.

Recruitment of Vulnerable Youth

Lars Stiernelöf, a sociologist committed to countering violent extremism, has observed a troubling shift among the youth in western Sweden. He reports a rise in boys using Nazi salutes in schools, influenced by prominent figures such as former U.S. President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. “They don’t do it as a type of homage to Hitler – they do it because Musk did it,” Stiernelöf explains, referencing the influence these figures have on young minds. While the number participating is small, it highlights the urgent need for early intervention in combating the recruitment of vulnerable boys into extremist ideologies.

Shift in Far-Right Dynamics

A report by Expo, a Swedish anti-racism organization, notes that active far-right groups in Sweden have reached their highest numbers since 2008. Although traditionally dominated by groups like the Nordic Resistance Movement (NMR), which has suffered setbacks due to its designation as a terror group by the U.S., a new wave of smaller, agile factions has emerged. These groups leverage social media platforms, particularly TikTok, to entice recruits with violent content before moving discussions to more secure private channels.

Among the more prominent, Aktivklubb Sverige acts as an umbrella organization for several smaller groups, such as White Boys Stockholm. Additionally, Gym XIV, which focuses on physical conditioning and preparation for violence, plays a significant role in promoting far-right ideologies among the youth.

Changing Demographics of Involvement

Stiernelöf identifies a key demographic shift: rather than attracting outwardly strong personalities, these groups are increasingly appealing to vulnerable young boys who often lack social connections. This transition poses a significant risk, as these boys may seek a sense of belonging in an increasingly violent and radical environment.

This concern has been echoed in broader patterns of violence, such as a recent shooting in Örebro, where a gunman killed ten individuals, mostly of immigrant backgrounds, before taking his own life. Experts believe the rise of lone-actor violence correlates with the recruitment strategies of these extremist groups.

Political Landscape and Mainstreaming Extremism

The resurgence of far-right extremism in Sweden is occurring against the backdrop of the Sweden Democrats, who garnered significant electoral success in 2022 by blaming rising gang violence on immigration. Their leader, Jimmie Åkesson, has been criticized for supporting conspiracy theories like “folkutbyte,” which posits a deliberate replacement of the white population.

In communities like Deje, where a relatively small population coexists, a white supremacist group's headquarters has gained a "tense acceptance," facilitating meetings for radicalized groups, including former members of NMR and the Proud Boys.

Warning Signs and Future Implications

Säpo, Sweden's security service, warns of an alarming overlap between active clubs and online radicalization, particularly as young children are targeted for recruitment. “The security service handles cases involving children who have not even reached adolescence,” the report reveals, emphasizing the allure of violence as an ideology for vulnerable youth.

As extreme right-wing groups gain visibility, researchers argue their proximity to mainstream ideology has been strengthened, buoyed by the support of influential figures like Trump and Musk. Jonathan Leman from Expo remarks that the previous administrations viewed far-right extremism as a threat, while current sentiments reflect an endorsement of similar ideologies.

The growing threat of violent extremism among youth in Sweden presents critical challenges. Community leaders, educators, and policymakers are now urged to act decisively to prevent further recruitment into these dangerous movements.