Self-financing

Self-financing is when violent extremist groups or individuals generate their own funds, often using personal money. This funding may be used alone or combined with other sources to support their operations.

For example, the Tvrdokorni movement from North Macedonia is primarily self-funded but has suggested political interest and potential support from Russia and their former ally, United Macedonia.²⁸ Although Russian financial backing is difficult to confirm, Tvrdokorni’s pro-Russian narratives and ties with United Macedonia hint at possible influence. However, Tvrdokorni president Dragan Ugrinovski stated that they are no longer affiliated with United Macedonia and fund their own activities. While recent initiatives have slowed, Ugrinovski confirmed the movement’s ongoing activity.²⁹ Similarly, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Saint George of Lončari group mixes self-financing with reportedly local and external sources. The group has received vehicles from the Russian Embassy in Sarajevo, which they publicly acknowledged in social media posts thanking the embassy.³⁰ It also receives occasional support from pro-Russian organizations in Serbia to pay for expenses such as uniforms, fuel, promotional materials and travel. However, a former member said that this funding remains modest and sporadic.³¹