Neue Allianzen? – Die Zusammenarbeit zwischen Extremisten, Formen des transnationalen Terrorismus und organisierter Kriminalität

Information from the organisers

Since the beginning of the 21st century, scholars have been discussing the development of a new convergence between organised crime and international terrorism. Whether in drug, arms or human trafficking - organised crime seems to have become a vital element of extremist and terrorist organisations. Both Islamist terrorism and right-wing extremist groups, for example, act as criminal syndicates. It has long been known that the terrorist militia "Islamic State" (IS) finances its activities primarily through the trade in synthetic drugs. The far-right "Brotherhood of Thuringia" has developed into a drug cartel during the pandemic. But US President Donald Trump also pursued the intention of having Mexican drug cartels categorised as terrorist groups during his first term in office. Are we dealing with a new form of cooperation between extremism and organised crime? Are the security authorities up to date?

We will address these and other questions during the event.

Speakers:

• Tim Segler, Terrorism and Internal Security Working Group of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V.

• Professor Sophia Hoffmann, Professorship for International Politics and Conflict Research, University of Erfurt

• Ludwig Kendzia, Freelance Journalist, MDR

• Jonas Urbach MdL, Speaker for Home Affairs, CDU parliamentary group in the Thuringian state parliament

The event is funded by grants from the Free State of Thuringia.