- PERCEPTIONS: Journal of International Affairs
- Vol: 21 Issue: 1
- Analysis of the Resource Mobilization Mechanism of the Islamic State
Analysis of the Resource Mobilization Mechanism of the Islamic State
Authors : Yutaka Takaoka
Pages : 11-26
View : 9 | Download : 4
Publication Date : 2016-04-01
Article Type : Other
Abstract :This article examines the structure of resource mobilization for the Islamic State by focusing on its recruitment mechanism. This mechanism consists of several actors, and their relationships and interactions are quite important for successful recruitment. Since Islamic extremist organizations need to avoid unreliable members, their resource mobilization in general and recruitment in particular have to be conducted through personal networks, such as kinship networks of each activist. Following the Islamic extremists’ success in agitations and propaganda done in cyber space, changes have appeared in the recruitment mechanism as well. Thus, nowadays, the mechanism is formed by "Muhajirun”, "recruiters”, "coordinators”, "temporary and real accepters”, and "disseminators”. Detailed observations of each actor and their nature, function, and even location reveal several important findings. Furthermore, these findings provide valuable insights about the threat potential of the Islamic State, and of providing counter measures against it. As a consequence, it is possible to say that an effective obstruction of the Islamic State’s resource mobilization is as important as direct military actions or police measures against itKeywords : Islamic Extremism, The Islamic State IS, ISIS, ISIL, Daesh, Resource Mobilization, Mujahidun, Muhajirun, Cross Border Migration, Terrorism.