Synopsis
Given the nature of terrorism as a form of political communication, the media is often regarded an integral part of the communication equation. That said, the Internet, along with its ever-evolving online and social media tools, presents a whole new dimension of contemporary challenges for security today. Connecting the dots between extremism, terrorism and the Internet has become a key area of concern for counterterrorism frontline officers, policymakers and researchers alike.

Many have argued that the Internet has not only allowed terrorists and their supporters to communicate their messages faster and to a broader range of audience, but it has also bolstered their modes of operation. It is therefore of continued relevance to explore the changing ways in which both extremists and terrorists are using the Internet, their objectives in doing so, and their strategies in using different types of online and social media. Furthermore, considering the ubiquity of the Internet and the increasing proliferation of extremist ideas and terrorist activities online, it is also necessary to continue analysing, developing and challenging current understanding of the role of online and social media in the radicalisation process of an individual to possible engagement in violence. Too often have online and social media been argued to be the significant factor driving radicalisation to violent extremism, but the actual processes and mechanisms remain poorly understood.

Much of the existing literature related to extremism and terrorism on the Internet focus either the ‘supply side’ (i.e., how extremists and terrorists use the Internet and the threats stemming from that) or the ‘demand side’ (i.e., how ordinary individuals become radicalised online). However, a way to better grasp the issue at hand is by simultaneously examining both the online and offline dynamics of extremism, terrorism and radicalisation. Uncovering the causative links between the online and offline dimensions of such a complex phenomenon requires rigorous and systematic research as well as sound and reflective methodology that accounts for differing context, time and space. Nothing less than a multidisciplinary examination of the current trends and challenges posed by radicalisation, extremism and terrorism online – the very approach of this workshop – can therefore prove instructive.

This workshop aims to assess the state of play of extremism and terrorism online, explore emerging trends and understand current concerns and challenges through relevant case studies. This workshop also seeks to examine the underlying mechanisms and processes of radicalisation over the Internet, the methodologies used and the policy implications derived from various researches on the topic in order to arrive at potential solutions that can effectively discourage, mitigate or counter extremism and terrorism online.

Who Should Attend
Policy-makers, mid to senior-level officers and analysts, strategists, researchers and academics involved in examining different aspects of Internet-facilitated radicalisation, radicalisation in the real world, countering violent extremism, and terrorism and national security topics in general. There will be ample networking opportunities with renowned experts in the field, and such professionals will benefit significantly from attending this workshop.

For invitation inquiries please contact:
Ms Chua Qian Yi
Administrative Officer
Email: [email protected]