Identitaire

Identitaire refers to a political current and a set of groups that advocate identitarianism—an emphasis on the primacy of national or ethnic cultural identity and the belief that identity is threatened by immigration and multiculturalism. The term is used in French as identitaire and in English as identitarian.

Origins and geography: The movement emerged in the 2010s in Europe, with notable groups such as Génération identitaire in France and the Identitäre Bewegung in German-speaking countries; similar groups have appeared in Austria, Italy, and beyond. They mobilize through online campaigns, street protests, posters, and publicity stunts, and have formed transnational networks centered on shared symbols and campaigns.

Ideology and aims: Identitarian groups advocate ethnocultural self-determination and oppose immigration and demographic change they perceive as eroding national or European identity. They emphasize cultural identity over civic nationalism and often rely on digital media, memes, and organized demonstrations. Critics describe them as xenophobic or far-right and say their rhetoric can border on extremist or exclusionary ideologies; scholars note their use of branding and transnational collaboration.

Notable actions and legal status: The French Génération identitaire became widely known for provocative actions and the Defend Europe campaign; across Europe, authorities have scrutinized or banned identitarian groups, labeling some as extremist organizations or dissolving affiliates. The German Identitäre Bewegung is among the groups that have faced legal restrictions in several countries.

Impact and reception: While not a major political party, identitarian groups have influenced online discourse around immigration and national identity and are part of the broader far-right milieu in Europe. They remain controversial and are widely studied by scholars and policymakers.