In recent months, far-right parties and activists across Western Europe have increasingly turned to generative artificial intelligence (AI) as a political tool, using AI-generated content to propagate anti-immigrant sentiments and other divisive narratives. The surge in AI-driven campaigning coincided with Europe’s parliamentary elections, where these extremist groups capitalized on the technology to amplify their messaging. Prominent AI-generated content has drawn attention for its provocative nature, including fabricated images designed to stoke fears of a so-called immigrant “invasion” and character attacks against political figures such as French President Emmanuel Macron. This trend has led to investigations, including scrutiny from the independent oversight board of Meta, which is examining a post from Germany that features an AI-produced image with anti-immigrant slogans.
The proliferation of AI usage among far-right groups appears to transcend borders, showcasing thematic similarities in their visual propaganda across various European nations. For instance, the Italian far right has shared photorealistic images that depict women and children eating insects, a conspiracy theory hinting at a supposed agenda of a “global elite.” Similarly, in Ireland, far-right activists created inflammatory images following violent incidents, with striking portrayals meant to incite Islamophobia. Experts warn that this unregulated use of AI by fringe political factions meets a growing demand for content that incites fear and animosity, while mainstream political entities remain hesitant to embrace such tactics due to ethical considerations regarding authenticity and reliability.
In Germany, the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party exemplifies the aggressive application of AI in its campaigning, producing provocative images that promote racist and xenophobic messages. An image currently under review features a woman enforcing nativist themes against the backdrop of a German flag, alleging that the country’s immigration policies promote violence. AfD’s campaigns are not isolated, as related pro-AfD groups deploy AI in creating images that fuel anti-immigrant hysteria, illustrating how accessible and rapid AI technology can be used to craft misleading narratives. Reality Defender, a deepfake detection firm, indicates that creating such images requires minimal time and effort, thus lowering barriers for dissemination.
In the UK, far-right activists have similarly exploited AI-generated imagery to promote inflammatory narratives, especially following tragic events like the recent stabbings in Southport. An image posted on social media purporting to depict men in traditional Islamic dress was utilized to incite public fear and promote protests, despite lacking context and validity. Figures like Tommy Robinson have also incorporated AI imagery into their campaigns, with contradictory public reception to their output. As these AI-generated narratives circulate online, they contribute to an increasingly toxic political discourse steeped in fear and division.
French far-right parties have adopted generative AI as a central part of their electoral strategies, utilizing not just images but also videos that depict false narratives of migration crises. Analysis indicates that only these extreme factions consistently leverage AI-generated visuals, enhancing their online presences and creating convincing, yet fictional, portrayals of events. This strategic use of generative AI distinguishes them within the wider political landscape and suggests a calculated effort to mainstream radical views.
In Ireland, although no major far-right party has achieved significant electoral success, the emergence of generative AI among fringe movements has gained momentum post-riots in Dublin. The technology has been used for creating resonant anti-immigration narratives, often drawing on the images of public figures to evoke a sense of urgency and mistrust toward immigrant communities. The popularity of such content suggests a tactic designed to rally support among broader discontent regarding government policies and social change, reminiscent of strategies seen elsewhere in Europe.
The Italian Lega party also exemplifies the manipulation of AI in political messaging, circulating AI-generated imagery to undermine progressive values through crafted visuals, including depictions aligning with right-wing conspiracy theories. Campaigns have employed shocking and false imagery to criticize policies on sexuality and immigration, showcasing the pervasive influence of generative AI in political rhetoric. As far-right movements across Europe embrace these advanced tools for propaganda, concerns rise about the implications for democracy and social cohesion, raising questions about the regulation and oversight of AI technology in political contexts. The burgeoning trend underscores the urgency of addressing the ethical dilemmas posed by generative AI in public discourse, as well as the necessity for a coordinated response to counteract the spread of misinformation.