Terrorism: A Social Media Analysis

The growth of internet and new technologies has reached a phenomenal rate. In year 2014, the number of global internet users passed 3 billion, and worldwide social media users exceeded 2 billion (Kemp, 2015). Studies show that this growth is not slowing anytime soon, a spread of mobile devices gives access to more and more users, particularly in the developing world. While this growth is undoubtedly having positive effect on global progress and world’s economy, the internet is becoming a tool for various terrorist organizations. Modern terrorism has been compared with theater (Tsfati, et al., 2002 p. 318), as terrorist acts are orchestrated and orientated to publicity; their main goal is to attract the attention of the masses through international

In this way, videos of ISIS beheadings or public announcements of Al Qaeda reach worldwide audience – it would be hard to find a person who has not seen at least a glimpse of such content. Furthermore, internet, differently from conventional media and press, gives an opportunity to avoid censorship. It is also used as a communication tool not only for targeting global audiences, but for inside communication and coordination of terrorist attacks, recruiting and fund raising (Weimann, 2006 p. 50). Does it mean that internet has become a “safe heaven” for terrorists? If so, should it face the same level of government regulation and control as other media, in order to avoid potential terrorist attacks? I will argue that due to increasing use of internet by terrorist organizations, regulative and controlling measures should be taken; however, approach must differ from regulation in other media, because internet, as a medium, is a specific

As argued earlier, a censorship, similar to that of other forms of media is hardly possible due to the threats to personal security and freedom of expression. I would say that the most important steps to tackle this problem are strengthening inter- and intra-governmental communications regarding information on possible terrorist threats; ensuring international legal response; also, encouraging social media platforms to maintain stricter policies on possible terrorism related content. In conclusion, internet should face the government regulation and control, but radical censorship measures should not be taken, as they would generate negative effect. However, lack of judicial power over potential terrorist threats should not remain. Cyber domain has become an integral part of everyday life, and it must not become an area outside jurisdiction. It is also important to note the aforementioned internet’s interactivity – the more modern terrorism commits to internet activities, the more it becomes vulnerable and exposes its discourse (Soriano, 2012 p. 273). Governments should use that and encourage active citizens to participate in countering terrorists’ discourse and reporting potential security