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Networks
Since the autonomous scene views all forms of hierarchy as a form of oppression, networks have traditionally been their chosen way of organising themselves. Networks differ from organisations by not having a centralised leadership, even though they too have rules and membership fees may occur. They consist of more or less independent groups that are coordinated rather than directed by a central body.
Antifascistisk aktion (AFA)
Antifascistisk aktion was founded in 1993 as a reaction to the emerging right-wing extremism. Although AFA is a national network, the level of activity and the use of violence vary between different locations in the country. The overall aim is to abolish the state and the existing order of society through revolution, and to create a state- and classless society in its stead.
In later years AFA has returned to its original focus on anti-fascism. To this end supporters of AFA are for example engaging in extensive mapping of individuals active in White Power circles. They also engage in threats and attacks against individuals. A militant approach and symbolic actions are advocated.
Revolutionära fronten (RF)
Revolutionära fronten consists of local groups with more or less formal leaders and have explicit rules concerning membership and conduct, but lack a centralised leadership. RF has its roots in AFA and was set up after the EU summit in Gothenburg 2001.
Their overall goal is to abolish the existing order of society through revolution and replace it with independent workers´ collectives that are governed through direct democracy. The more immediate goal is to defend the working class against acts of aggression, which may include everything from physical attacks by the White Power scene to changes in labour law.
Campaigns
Campaigns are temporary projects where the activities of various individuals or groups are coordinated to concentrate efforts on a particular issue or event. They are typically initiated from the “top" (top-down strategy), and often involve the setting up of a specific website to communicate the aim of the campaign as well as provide an opportunity for actions to be both suggested and reported back. The campaigns often consist of legal actions, but at times actions may be illegal.
Osynliga partiet
The campaign Osynliga partiet was initiated within the autonomous scene during the election campaign of 2006. It was launched in connection with the Labour Day celebrations of that year, with the purpose of protesting against the centre-right coalition. A series of actions were carried out against authorities and political parties, and even though several actions were opinion-forming and non-violent, Osynliga partiet was also linked to a number of violent acts that received extensive media coverage.
Action names
Action names spring more or less spontaneously into existence, to be used by different groups or individuals without an official platform. Anyone sharing the core ideology underlying the action name is free to make use of it. Action names are only used by the autonomous scene.
Global Intifada
The action name Global Intifada has been in use in Sweden and internationally during the 1990s and 2000s. It has been used both in ideological texts and targeted actions against what is perceived as imperialism.
In 2004 and 2005 the name was used in connection with several violent attacks against companies and foreign embassies. The following year, it reappeared in connection with the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East. No continuous activity is however carried out in the name of Global Intifada.
Reclaim the Streets/Reclaim the City
Reclaim the Streets originated in the UK as an anti-car direct action movement. In Sweden it is more of an action name than an organisation. Several actors on the autonomous scene arrange Reclaim actions at regular intervals.
Actions take the form of street parties. Organisers rarely apply for authorisation, as in their view the streets belong to everyone. The street parties are thematic and have names with or without the word reclaim. Far from all participants are politically motivated. Most street parties cause no public disturbance, although at times they have ended in riot and willful damage.
