Civilian militia groups

Civilian militia groups are organized, usually non-governmental assemblies of civilians who train for defense or patriotic purposes, often emphasizing firearms and preparedness. They are typically formed by individuals who believe in the importance of personal or community self-defense and may operate outside official military or law enforcement structures. These groups vary widely in their objectives, organization, and legality, with some advocating for constitutional rights and others holding more extreme views. While some militia groups function as community-based organizations, others have been associated with political activism or extremism, leading to scrutiny and regulation by authorities.