Online Radicalisation: Current Debates and State Responses

In: Sicherheit & Frieden, Band 37, Heft 2, S. 87-91

Abstract

The Internet has long been recognised as a space where extremists can disseminate propaganda, recruit, and spread hate speech. However, whilst more (empirical) research is required to fully understand the contours and scale of the issue of online radicalisation, the EU and its Member States are taking significant action to remove illegal online content. Takedowns raise a number of issues concerning the safeguarding of fundamental rights and the measure is potentially counter-productive. This article presents an overview of the debates surrounding online radicalisation and examines the use of takedowns, highlighting the specific issues that arise.