Combating ISIS propaganda networks

The Islamic State (or ISIS) uses social media in unprecedented ways to enlist new members to its ranks. ISIS’s propaganda networks pose a real challenge to the international community as it tries to counter ISIS’s ability to recruit members and share its extremist ideology.

On October 21, the Project on U.S. Relations with the Islamic World hosted Ambassador Alberto Fernandez for the launch of his new Brookings paper, “Here to stay and growing: Combating ISIS propaganda networks.” Ambassador Fernandez explored the propaganda history of al-Qaida and ISIS, as well as the various approaches that different regional and international actors have taken to counter ISIS messaging. Ambassador Richard LeBaron, nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, joined Ambassador Fernandez on the panel, which was moderated by Brookings Fellow Will McCants.

LeBaron and Fernandez, both former directors of the U.S. government’s Center for Strategic Counterterrorism Communications, will discuss themes present in the ISIS “brand” of propaganda and explain why ISIS messaging is unique. They will also suggest new ways of thinking about counter-messaging and give recommendations for a more effective and comprehensive counter-messaging strategy.