Study guide
Topic:
Paramilitary and militia groups
Lecturer:
Introduction to the topic:
The lecture introduces students to paramilitarism through specific examples of paramilitary groups that combine all the defining criteria of paramilitarism or related concepts (vigilantism, militia etc.) in different combinations. State-organized, semi-state and completely non-state paramilitary elements will be presented, as well as those opposing the state in general, seeking to enforce the law and gain political influence. As part of the case studies, the lecture first reflects the American tradition of politically radical militarism, spontaneous pro-state militarism in contemporary Ukraine, the almost forgotten issue of (Northern) Irish paramilitarism/separatism, and finally, paramilitarism in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The lecture will also present primary states' security policies to counter paramilitary groups and their activities.
Instructions for the seminar: See beforehand (before the seminary session) four videos from the required sources (sources number 3, 4, 5, and 6 ) about the contemporary US paramilitarism nature. Select individually (each student for himself/herself) at least one specific topic from any of those videos you would like to dicsuss, know more about, or share your opinion about. The selected issues and fragments will be then discussed at the seminary session, each student's activity and preparedness to react will be evaluated and rewarded by additional points.
Required sources:
1. POTOČŇÁK, Adam. Paramilitary and militia groups. The presentation provided here
2. KANDRÍK, Matej. The Challenge of Paramilitarism in Central and Eastern Europe. 2020. Available here
3. "Inside America's Largest Right Wing Militia", documentary, 2017.
4. "The Radical States of America", documentary, 2020.
5. "Citizen Militias Take US-Mexico Border Security Into Their Own Hands", documentary, 2023.
6. "How America's Left Is Preparing for Escalating Violence", reporting, 2024.
Additional sources:
1. RĘKAWEK, Kacper. Looks can be deceiving: Extremism meets paramilitarism in Central and Eastern Europe. 2021. Available here
2. RUHL, Mitch. Paramilitary Forces in Ukraine - Matches to a Powder Keg, 2022. Available here