Violent extremists are using antisemitism to recruit in Canada: CSIS report
Ideologically motivated violent extremist groups are using antisemitism as a tool to recruit followers and incite violence, according to a recent report released by Canada’s spy agency. The report, dated May 2024, highlights how these extremist groups are exploiting antisemitic beliefs to spread hate and extremist ideologies.
The report, obtained through the access to information law by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), reveals that these extremist groups are capitalizing on current events, such as the Israel-Hamas conflict, to garner support and fuel their violent agendas. By incorporating antisemitic rhetoric into their narratives, these groups aim to inspire violence and attract new adherents who will further disseminate their hateful messaging.
Social media platforms serve as the primary avenue for the dissemination of antisemitic and violent extremist content, according to the report. Whether through mainstream providers or influencers who actively promote antisemitic content and conspiracy theories, these narratives have the potential to incite hate crimes, violence, and acts of terrorism.
The report warns that the rise in incidents targeting the Jewish community could normalize antisemitism within Canadian society, a trend that may be exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. While pro-Palestinian protests and university demonstrations are not likely to lead to violent extremist acts, the report emphasizes the need for vigilance in addressing the spread of hate and intolerance.
The CSIS report categorizes various groups under the umbrella of Ideologically Motivated Violent Extremists (IMVE), including far-right extremists, anti-authority factions, anarchists, xenophobic organizations, and groups promoting violence against marginalized communities. Additionally, Religiously Motivated Violent Extremist (RMVE) groups, such as those affiliated with Al-Qaida or Daesh, are identified as a separate category.
Dr. Barbara Perry, director of the Centre on Hate, Bias, and Extremism at Ontario Tech University, underscores the prevalence of antisemitism within far-right extremist groups and their utilization of anti-Muslim narratives to attract followers. Perry notes that the exploitation of antisemitism and anti-Muslim sentiment serves as a dual strategy for these groups, particularly during times of conflict in the Middle East.
Phil Gurski, president of Borealis Threat and Risk Consulting and a former CSIS analyst, believes that the primary threat of violent extremism in Canada stems from Islamist groups. While online rhetoric may be escalating, identifying individuals or groups at risk of carrying out violent attacks remains a challenge for security services.
Andrew Kirsch, principal of the Kirsch Group and a former CSIS intelligence officer, acknowledges the strategic use of antisemitism by extremist groups to exploit current events and incite violence. By leveraging antisemitism as a recruitment tool, these groups aim to radicalize individuals and justify acts of violence.
Austin Parcels, manager of research and advocacy for Jewish advocacy group B’nai Brith Canada, affirms the findings of the CSIS report, highlighting how antisemitism is not just a form of hatred but a means for extremists to recruit followers and normalize violence. Parcels emphasizes the importance of recognizing the underlying motives behind extremist groups’ use of antisemitism and their ultimate goal of eradicating the Jewish State.
