Strategic Influence: A Framework to Counter Violent Extremist Ideology
Abstract
The United States is involved in a global ideological struggle against violent Salafi extremism. In response, both the Bush and Obama Administrations issued counterterrorism strategies that advocated a balanced whole-of-government approach to secure their strategic ends: the defeat of Al Qaida and diminishment of its ideology. Recently, the so called Arab Awakening has created conditions of political uncertainty across the Middle East which has further complicated matters. Unfortunately, the U.S. response has not been balanced, but rather has focused heavily on lethal ways to combat extremism. This paper suggests that in order to achieve an enduring solution, the United States must alter course and focus its efforts against the enemy's center of gravity, its ideology. This paper then suggests a strategic influence framework centered on activities supporting indigenous natural allies and tools of influence to create a competing social movement and ideological narrative. The intended effects are to delegitimize the extremist ideology and fray their network. Only then will the violent extremist lose their ability to influence the Muslim masses and regenerate new recruits.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA589315
Entities
People
- Victor G. Garcia Jr
Organizations
- United States Army War College