The European Union faces a multifaceted and rapidly evolving terrorism threat landscape. Europol’s 2024 EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report (EU TE-SAT), produced in close collaboration with Member States and international partners, delivers a comprehensive overview of terrorist activity within the EU during 2023. “In today’s changing world, terrorist actors continuously evolve, adapting their narratives, outreach, and activities in response to the most recent geopolitical and socioeconomic developments,” stated Catherine De Bolle, Europol’s Executive Director. This report provides policymakers, law enforcement, and the public with invaluable insights to enhance regional stability and public safety.
Beyond statistical analysis of terrorist attacks, arrests, and convictions, the EU TE-SAT highlights ideological trends, technological advancements, and external factors shaping terrorism. This article summarizes the report’s key findings, emphasizing the importance of addressing these threats collaboratively and innovatively.
Key statistics and trends in EU terrorism
Terrorist attacks in 2023
In 2023, seven EU Member States reported a total of 120 terrorist attacks, marking an increase compared to previous years. These included:
- 70 separatist attacks (all completed), making separatism the most common form of terrorism.
- 32 left-wing and anarchist attacks, of which 23 were completed.
- 14 Jihadist attacks, with 5 completed.
- 2 foiled right-wing attacks.
Jihadist attacks were the deadliest, resulting in six fatalities and twelve injuries. Despite their lower frequency, their high lethality underscores the continued security threat they pose.
Arrests and convictions
A total of 426 individuals were arrested for terrorist offences across 22 Member States, with 334 arrests related to jihadist terrorism. This represents a notable increase compared to 2022. Concluded court proceedings across 14 Member States resulted in 290 convictions and 68 acquittals for terrorist offences, showcasing robust legal action against terrorism.
Insights by terrorism type
Jihadist terrorism
Jihadist terrorism remains the EU’s primary security concern, with attacks both within and outside the EU exacerbating the threat. The fragmented landscape of foreign terrorist groups, online networks, and lone actors provides fertile ground for radicalization and recruitment. The October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and subsequent responses intensified anti-Western narratives, further fueling propaganda and mobilization efforts.
Right-wing terrorism
The right-wing terrorist landscape is increasingly driven by young actors and small groups, often motivated by accelerationist ideologies. New online communities are emerging, disseminating propaganda, recruiting members, and coordinating attacks. Right-wing violent extremists increasingly utilize digital platforms for incitement and organization.
Left-wing and anarchist terrorism
Left-wing and anarchist groups coalesced around anti-state, anti-capitalist, and climate-related narratives in 2023. Solidarity with imprisoned anarchists continued to be a significant motivator. These actors pose a persistent threat, though their actions often target property rather than individuals.
Ethno-nationalist and separatist terrorism
Separatist groups, particularly the Corsican FLNC and GcC, remained active, with attacks reported in France. Additionally, the Kurdish PKK continued its fundraising, recruitment, and propaganda activities in several Member States.
Other forms of terrorism
A foiled attack linked to the Reichsbürger movement exemplifies the diverse nature of terrorist threats. This anti-government group’s activities highlight the growing influence of conspiracy theories in radicalizing individuals.
Technological integration and emerging threats
The rapid pace of technological innovation is increasingly exploited by terrorist actors. Europol’s report underscores several critical developments:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Terrorist groups are leveraging AI tools, such as Large Language Models (LLMs) and deepfakes, to enhance propaganda campaigns, evade detection, and create false identities.
- 3D printing: The demand for 3D-printed weapons has spread beyond right-wing actors, with individuals from various ideological backgrounds seeking online resources for manufacturing.
- Encrypted communication: End-to-end encryption (E2EE) platforms are misused to disseminate violent extremist content and organize attacks.
Young people, often targeted for recruitment, are actively engaging with these technologies, amplifying the reach and sophistication of terrorist campaigns.
Broader context and external influences
The EU’s security environment is increasingly influenced by external crises. The Hamas-Israel conflict in late 2023 created heightened societal tensions within Member States, fueling anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric. Terrorist groups exploited these polarizing circumstances to recruit followers and incite lone actor attacks.
Socioeconomic conditions further contribute to the spread of violent extremist narratives. In an era marked by uncertainty and instability, more individuals are vulnerable to adopting radical ideologies, particularly through social media and online platforms.
A call for resilience and collaboration
The 2024 EU TE-SAT report paints a sobering picture of the EU’s terrorism landscape. As Catherine De Bolle stated, “Europol and its partners stand resolute to continue the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, to further strengthen partnerships and explore new pathways for innovation in counterterrorism.” Collaboration across Member States, along with innovative approaches to counterterrorism, is essential to address the evolving threats outlined in the report. As Europol emphasizes, the integration of advanced technologies by malicious actors necessitates a proactive and adaptive response from law enforcement and policymakers.