Case Study 4: Radicalization and Recruitment — the ISIS media jihad Digital propaganda is a central aspect of the Islamic State’s approach to contemporary jihad. ISIS leaders go so far as to elevate the production and dissemination of propaganda as a form of worship.37 In doing so, ISIS has been particularly successful in exploiting defining elements of social media — peer-to-peer communication, near real-time user-generated content and low-cost dissemination of multimedia content — to spread extremist propaganda; target, manipulate, and seek to recruit supporters; and coordinate tactical operations. Weaponization via radicalization and recruitment ISIS has rebranded the image of radical extremism through messages of inclusiveness and belonging — many of which are disseminated online. An initial focus on gaining currency among extremist and fringe demographics has been replaced by a broader approach to appeal to wider audiences.38 The affordances of social media allow for nearinstantaneous access to emotionally resonant narratives, reduce costs associated with participation in formal organizations, offer a relatively risk-free entry point for potential recruits to find like-minded individuals, and create a social environment in which extremist views are normalized. In short, “social media provides cheaper and more accessible pathways to radicalization.”39 These features of the contemporary information landscape are perfectly aligned with the franchised nature of modern terrorist organizations and operations.40 Helmand, Afghanistan | Toni Greaves for Mercy Corps Techniques and Tactics ISIS adapts conventional recruiting techniques to the digital information environment, allowing for more targeted campaigning, more emotionally resonant messaging, and more personalized exchanges between operatives and potential recruits. Specific tactics include: 1) Targeting younger, tech-savvy millennials who feel isolated from society. They often lack a strong sense of identity or purpose, and are frustrated with their economic, familial or interpersonal situations.41 37 Winter, 11, 17. 38 Koerner, 2016. 39 Zeitzoff, 9. 40 Theohary and Rollins, 4. 41 See Dylan Gerstel, “ISIS and Innovative Propaganda: Confronting Extremism in the Digital Age,” Swarthmore International Relations Journal Issue 1 (2017) pg. 2; and Lydia Wilson, “Understanding the Appeal of ISIS” New England Journal of Public Policy Vol 29 No. 1 (March 2017), pg. 8. MERCY CORPS The Weaponization of Social Media: How social media can spark violence and what can be done about it 14