23/04/2025
The Policy and Area Studies Research Unit, in collaboration with the Peace, Dialogue, and Xenophobia Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia, successfully conducted the second webinar in a series titled โThe Rise of Far-Right Extremism: Causes and Consequences.โ
In this session, the guest speaker Dr. Omran Sharufi examined the relationship between far-right parties and their support for Zionist movements, despite a historical association with anti-Semitism. He further explored how the dynamics of far-right politics have shifted since World War II, noting a transition from biological racism to cultural politics after the 1970s. Dr. Omran emphasized that support for Israel by far-right parties is driven by two main factors: first, they see Israel as an authentic expression of ethno-nationalism that resists global human rights conventions in favour of protecting national values and territories; second, supporting Israel helps them gain acceptance among Western audiences, allowing them to justify their cultural politics and Islamophobia. Interestingly, he pointed out that far-right parties, which historically harboured anti-Semitic tendencies, now ironically argue that anti-Semitism originated in the Muslim world rather than in Europe. Nevertheless, Dr. Omran stressed that their support for Zionism is more of a strategic position than a genuine concern for the Jewish population. Additionally, the speaker highlighted the diversity within far-right movements, noting that some parties still embrace anti-Semitism and regard Jews as outsiders. Following the presentation, Dr. Omran answered critical questions from the audience, which added depth to the discussion.
Dr. Omran Sharufi is an expert on far-right politics and populism in Europe and is currently a post-doctoral research fellow at Verije University in Belgium.
