Promoting online voices for countering violent extremism
By: Todd C. Helmus, Erin York, Peter Chalk
Contributors: York, Erin (Researcher); Chalk, Peter; RAND Homeland Security and Defense Center
Publisher: Rand Corp.
Published: 2013
Place of publication: Santa Monica, Calif.]
Language: eng
Number of pages: 15
ISBN-13: 9780833078544
Subjects: Terrorism; Prevention; Radicalism; Internet; Social aspects; Online social networks; Political aspects; Islamic fundamentalism
Description: American Muslims have played an important role in helping to counter violent extremism (CVE) and support for al-Qa'ida, and are increasingly using the Internet and social media to these ends. Discussions with a number of Muslim leaders active in social media suggest that it is possible to expand such efforts even further, and doing so is a major objective of the August 2011 White House strategy to counter violent extremism. RAND researchers reviewed literature and interviewed American Muslims experienced in social media to understand and explain key challenges facing Muslim activists against extremism, and to identify ways in which the public and private sector can help empower CVE voices online. Their recommendations include reducing the national security focus of CVE where possible: addressing sources of mistrust within the Muslim community, focusing engagement and education on those influential in social media, and enhancing both government and private-sector funding and engagement.
Notes: Caption title.

"The RAND Homeland Security and Defense Center"--P. [4] of cover.

"RR-130-OSD"--P. [4] of cover.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 11-15).