Antifa: Origins, Ideology, and Relevance

Syllabus: Internal Security, World History (UPSC GS I, III)
Source: BBC

Context: The U.S. President recently announced plans to designate Antifa as a terrorist organisation after the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

What is Antifa?

• Meaning: Short for “Anti-Fascist.”
• Nature: Not a formal organisation but a loosely connected network of activists.
• Objective: Oppose fascism, white supremacy, and far-right extremism.

Historical Origins

• 1930s Europe:
  • Antifaschistische Aktion (Germany, 1932).
  • Battle of Cable Street (UK, 1936) against fascist marches.
• Draws inspiration from resistance against Nazism and authoritarian regimes during WWII.

Ideology and Beliefs

• Left-leaning with elements of anarchist, anti-capitalist, and anti-authoritarian thought.
• Seeks to prevent the rise of extremist ideologies through direct action and grassroots mobilisation.

Structure and Tactics

• Organisation: Decentralised, no formal leadership or hierarchy.
• Methods:
  • Peaceful protests, public awareness campaigns.
  • Confrontational approaches – disrupting rallies, “doxxing” far-right activists, online activism.