Web 2.0 as counterterrorism and public diplomacy

[Evan O'Neil]

Radio Free Europe analyst Daniel Kimmage wrote an interesting opinion piece in the New York Times today ("Fight Terror With YouTube") on how Al Qaeda is behind the curve when it comes to Web 2.0 technologies. He says the power of social networking is that it "can unite a fragmented silent majority and help it to find its voice in the face of thuggish opponents," leading one to conclude that "unfettered access to a free Internet is not merely a goal to which we should aspire on principle, but also a very practical means of countering Al Qaeda." Kimmage reports that the most common countries of origin for jihadists are also countries that surveil, censor, and restrict Internet usage. Is "Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds" paired with any Internet freedom groups that work on expanding access in these countries? (For further reading, we covered this topic a little while back on Policy Innovations: "Typing TERROR in a Crowded Chat")

[Rita J. King]

This is a very thought-provoking question!

"Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds" is not currently enriched by the perspective of any such Internet freedom groups that work on expanding access, but it is a particular area of interest for us. Feel free to extend invitations to anyone who might want to join this discussion. All of the robust discussions hosted within the "Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds" group will enable us to create a far more nuanced understanding of the complex subject matter. We greatly appreciate your time and attention.