In the wake of the military dictatorship that gripped Greece from 1967 to 1974, the seeds of radical leftist and anarchist ideologies took root, giving rise to a wave of domestic terrorism that continues to shape the country’s security landscape. This tumultuous period marked the emergence of Greece’s most notorious terrorist groups, Revolutionary Organization 17 November (17N) and Revolutionary Popular Struggle (ELA).
The genesis of Greek domestic terrorism can be traced back to the collapse of the military regime, as disillusioned elements sought to challenge the established order through violent means. 17N made its debut in 1975 with the audacious assassination of CIA Chief of Station Richard Welch, signaling its intent to target perceived enemies of the Greek people. Over the next 27 years, 17N would emerge as Greece’s most lethal terrorist group, claiming the lives of at least 23 individuals, including four Americans. Concurrently, ELA emerged as a formidable force, conducting approximately 250 attacks across a spectrum of targets until its last operation in 1994.
The turn of the millennium witnessed a changing of the guard in Greece’s terrorist landscape, as a new generation of extremist groups stepped into the fray. Among the most prominent were Revolutionary Struggle (EA), Conspiracy of Fire Nuclei (SPF), and Sect of Revolutionaries (SE). EA, rooted in radical leftist ideology, unleashed a wave of high-profile attacks against Greek and Western interests, including a rocket-propelled grenade assault on the US Embassy in Athens in 2007. SPF, an anarchist faction, gained notoriety for its 2010 parcel bomb campaign targeting international leaders and institutions, marking a significant escalation in tactics.
Despite concerted efforts by Greek authorities to stem the tide of domestic terrorism, challenges persist in the form of elusive group leaders and evolving tactics. The disappearance of EA’s ringleader, Nikos Maziotis, in 2012 highlighted the difficulty of tracking and apprehending key operatives. Moreover, the emergence of lesser-known groups, such as the Group of Popular Rebels (OLA) and the Zero Tolerance Organization (ZTO), underscores the decentralized nature of the threat landscape.
In recent years, Greek domestic terrorism has manifested in a variety of forms, from arson attacks against journalists’ homes to bombings targeting public spaces. The interplay between extremist factions and the political climate, characterized by polarization and social unrest, presents a complex challenge for law enforcement and policymakers alike. Moreover, the resurgence of violent extremism raises concerns about cross-border radicalization and collaboration with international networks.
As Greece grapples with the enduring legacy of domestic terrorism, efforts to address root causes, enhance security measures, and foster social cohesion remain paramount. By confronting the ideological underpinnings of extremism and promoting dialogue and inclusion, Greek society can mitigate the allure of violence and uphold democratic values in the face of adversity.
