Transnational Forms of Right-Wing Extremism Using the Example of the Ülkücü Movement

The sub-project “ReTra” aims to gain deeper insights into the ideology, structure, and activities of the so-called “Gray Wolves” in Bavaria, as well as their connections to Turkey. The goal is to understand the conditions that foster acceptance of these groups and the countermeasures available. Beyond the so-called “Wolf Salute,” little is known about the “Gray Wolves”. They exploit this lack of societal awareness to present themselves as democratic self-formed migrant organizations. Otherwise, they remain inconspicuous in daily life, despite the Bavarian Office for the Protection of the Constitution estimating over 1,300 active followers in Bavaria.

Through systematic document analysis, interviews, and additional methods, the project investigates the appeal of these groups to people with ties to Turkey and examines the organizational structure of the “Gray Wolves” in Bavaria. This research aims to develop measures to limit their scope of action.

The research is supported by an advisory group consisting of civil society actors engaged with the Ülkücü movement. Additionally, the sub-project is establishing a network of scholars to facilitate discussions on these developments.

This work contributes to research on transnational forms of right-wing extremism. Rather than focusing on interactions, such as mutual visits, between different far-right groups across borders, the study examines networks of groups operating in multiple countries, such as the “Gray Wolves”. It emphasizes the need for greater attention to this form of right-wing extremism than it has received so far.