BANGLADESH INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL AND STRATEGIC STUDIES

ROLE OF INTERNET-BASED ALTERNATIVE MEDIA IN GLOBAL TERRORISM AND COUNTER TERRORISM

Author: Md. Jahan Shoieb

DOI Link: https://www.doi.org/10.56888/BIISSj2018v39n2a4

ABSTRACT

Global terrorism is a multi-dimensional concern. Nowadays, terrorists use multifaceted tactics in order to avoid various counterterrorism operations. In recent years, a comprehensive drone campaign by the United States and death of some top leaders pushed Al Qaeda, Islamic State and other terrorist groups to find out alternative ways to convey their messages to their followers and sympathizers. Terrorist groups are resorting to internet-based alternative media to spread terrorism. Internet is also helping terrorist groups in training, fundraising, recruiting manpower, planning and executing terrorist attacks. Lone-wolf terrorists are also taking advantage of internet-based media in communication technologies. Internet has brought a shift in the spectra of global terrorism. An understanding of the linkage between terrorism and internet-based alternative media can help in formulating a counterterrorism strategy. This paper examines the role of the internet-based alternative media in global terrorism and counterterrorism. The research finding suggests that terrorist groups are quite successful in using internet-based alternative media to reach their audiences. It is also evident that the internet also can play an important role in global counter terrorism efforts.