|
|
 |
|
Home page  About CSIS Programs Transnational Threats Project Open Source, Trusted Information Network for Counterterrorism
|
|
|
Open Source, Trusted Information Network for Counterterrorism
|
|
In part to advance overdue changes in information gathering, CSIS’ Transnational Threats Project successfully operated a global “Trusted Information Network” (TIN) that examined Islamist extremist threats in Europe. The TIN, based solely on open source materials, accomplished the following:
Rapid delivery of relevant, ongoing fieldwork and open source information to the TIN. Generated valuable insights from specialists with on-the-ground experience. Effectively vetted sources and information Dynamic network allowed for easy sharing, quick responses, and frank exchanges. Exposed and demonstrated the TIN model to a wide range of U.S. and foreign intelligence and law enforcement officials who expressed great interest in the TIN process and substantive results. Successful launch and operation for one year of an open source counterterrorism network across several time zones, work schedules, and cultures.
This real-world example of the power of collaborative, open source networks revealed that structured interaction with non-governmental “experts on the periphery” can generate new knowledge, alternative hypotheses, and unique perspectives of great value to those in government.
Published in July 2007 under the title of Force Multiplier for Intelligence: Collaborative Open Source Networks, the TIN surveyed the roles, activities, and impact of jihadists in Europe and its implications for U.S. security. Fifteen internationally recognized experts engaged in scores of discussions for one year in an online collaborative discussion forum, generating dozens of novel but related exchanges on the terrorist threat in Europe. Participants submitted very timely, detailed research and resources into the TIN—sometimes even before seeking publication in scholarly journals, newspapers, or other media outlets.
The TIN included project advisors and specialists from four continents, eight countries, and represented a wide range of experiences. TIN participants were academics, journalists, former intelligence officers, and experts in terrorism, “online jihad,” law, Muslim immigration to Europe, Islamic and Arabic culture, Middle East politics and society, criminal networks, and information technology. There were challenges to the opinions and insights offered by members, and the TIN was succesful in vetting open source information. More often than not, TIN member contributions were enriched and refined by the dynamic exchange of comments.
The combined perspectives on ground-level developments yielded superb insights. The TIN dialogue on these subjects brought to light some of the factors that could move a person from protest to violence. Terrorist group motivations, discernable organizational features, tactics, finances, and trends are more easily seen by those who live and work in the same environment. There were several TIN members who, through their normal research and professional work, conducted interviews with radicalized prisoners, former Jihadists, and other key players.
Some of the findings generated by the TIN beginning in April, 2006 include:
Principal training, indoctrination, and organization of terrorist groups in Europe takes place locally and relies on Internet information. Diminished role in radicalization conducted by Imams and Jihadists in favor of the Internet and chat rooms. The Internet is increasing the roles and impact of women on radical groups. Court transcripts and police interviews can reveal important insights on motivation, organization, and recruitment insights. Insufficient data to assess the role of returning fighters from Iraq and elsewhere. Networking in prisons is widespread, and results in strong, post-prison, action-oriented connections. Management of public opinion and the organization of supporters serves as an indicator of impending action (violent and non-violent). Self-starting terrorists often view as necessary a pilgrimage to Afghanistan and Pakistan for a “blessing." Foreign policy events (i.e., Iraq, Israel-Palestine) drive European Muslim radicalization as much, if not more, than local grievances and conditions. CSIS’ Transnational Threats Project is exploring a second TIN to examine transnational crime and terrorism in Southeast Asia.
Last updated: September 25, 2007
|
Contact Information
|
Program Coordinator and Research Assistant |
David Gordon
Send E-mail
202-775-7329
|
|
|
|
|
