Francesco Marone
University of Teramo, Facoltà Di Scienze Politiche, Faculty Member
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Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Counter terrorism, Migration and Security, Italian Politics, Secrecy, and 77 moreIntelligence Studies, Organized Crime, Terrorism, Suicide Terrorism, International Relations, Criminology, Sociology of Religion, Italy, Migration Studies, Secret Society, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Social Movements, Martyrdom, Voluntary Martyrdom, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Self-Sacrifice, Political Science, Religion, Religion and Politics, History of Terrorism, al-Qaeda, Social Sciences, Violence, Intelligence, Anarchism, Trust, Red brigades, Brigate Rosse (BR), Italian Terrorism, Anarchism, Insurrection, Sociology of Crime and Deviance, Criminologia, Crime, Political Violence, Religion and Violence, International Terrorism, Critical Terrorism Studies, Non State Armed Actors, Hamas, 9/11 Literature, Populism, Populismo, Lone Wolf Terrorism, Security Studies, Migration, Smuggling, Human Trafficking and SMuggling, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Foreign Fighters, Irregular Migration and Security In Europe, Anarchist Studies, Religious Conversion, Conflict, Human Smuggling, terrorism, migration, EU, Secret, Jihad, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Diplomacy, Diplomacy and international relations, Crisis Management, Emergency Management, Foreign Terrorist Fighters, Radicalisation, Call for Papers, Disaster Management, Disaster Studies, Disaster, Civil Protection, Emergency Preparedness, Disaster Preparedness, Sociology of Disaster, Crisis/disaster Management, Risk and crisis management, Crisis communication and management, and International Security edit
The internet offers tremendous opportunities for violent extremists across the ideological spectrum and at a global level. In addition to propaganda, digital technologies have transformed the dynamics of radical mobilisation, recruitment... more
The internet offers tremendous opportunities for violent extremists across the ideological spectrum and at a global level. In addition to propaganda, digital technologies have transformed the dynamics of radical mobilisation, recruitment and participation.
Even though the jihadist threat has seemingly declined in the West, the danger exists of the internet being an environment where radical messages can survive and even prosper. Against this background, this ISPI report investigates the current landscape of jihadist online communication, including original empirical analysis. Specific attention is also placed on potential measures and initiatives to address the threat of online violent extremism.
The volume aims to present important points for reflection on the phenomenon in the West (including Italy) and beyond.
Even though the jihadist threat has seemingly declined in the West, the danger exists of the internet being an environment where radical messages can survive and even prosper. Against this background, this ISPI report investigates the current landscape of jihadist online communication, including original empirical analysis. Specific attention is also placed on potential measures and initiatives to address the threat of online violent extremism.
The volume aims to present important points for reflection on the phenomenon in the West (including Italy) and beyond.
Research Interests:
International Relations, Communication, Terrorism, International Terrorism, International Security, and 15 morePropaganda & Indoctrination Studies, Ideology, Social Media, Twitter, Counterterrorism (CT), Political Ideology, Religion and Violence, Online Communication, Hacking, Internet and politics, Cyber Security, Jihadism, Countering Violent Extremism, Radicalization and Extremism, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
Research Interests:
Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, Political Violence and Terrorism, Israel/Palestine, and 28 morePalestine, History of Terrorism, Suicide, Political Violence, Islamic Studies, Martyrdom, Religion and Violence, 9/11 Literature, History of Suicide, Conflict Resolution, Islam, Violence, Terrorism, Peace, Jihad, Suicide Terrorism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Kamikaze, 11 September Attacks, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Violencia Política, Hezbollah, 9/11, Islamic fundamentalism, Suicidio, Hamas, Terrorismo, Voluntary Martyrdom, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, and Martirio
The Ukrainian crisis has caused important repercussions at the international level, including the influx of thousands of voluntary fighters from abroad. According to recent estimates, from 2014 until the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine,... more
The Ukrainian crisis has caused important repercussions at the international level, including the influx of thousands of voluntary fighters from abroad. According to recent estimates, from 2014 until the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, approximately 1,000 Westerners travelled to the disputed region of the Donbas (Eastern Ukraine), on both sides of the conflict (Ukrainian forces and Russia-supported "separatist" militias). This article intends to offer an original contribution to the empirical study of the mobilization of Western fighters in the Donbas, by taking into account, for the first time, the national case of Italy (one of the countries most affected by the phenomenon in the West). In particular, based on detailed primary and secondary sources, the paper examines in depth a relatively large Italian network of pro-separatist fighters and direct supporters, including far-right militants, and analyzes their profiles and mobilization dynamics, drawing upon the literature on social movements and contentious politics.
Research Interests:
Social Movements, Terrorism, International Studies, Propaganda, International Security, and 15 moreWar Studies, Ideology, Neo-Fascism, Political Violence, Political Mobilization, Insurgency, Italy, Ukraine, Russian-Ukrainian Relations, Political Recruitment, Right-Wing Extremism, Mercenaries, Extreme and Far Right, Foreign Fighters, and Donbas
The secret is essential for terrorists. Aware of their position of political and military inferiority towards their adversary, terrorists typically have no choice but to operate clandestinely, emerging from the shadows to carry out acts... more
The secret is essential for terrorists. Aware of their position of political and military inferiority towards their adversary, terrorists typically have no choice but to operate clandestinely, emerging from the shadows to carry out acts of violence in order to attract attention. However, the social organisation of the secret has not been the subject of a thorough reflection in the literature on political terrorism. Following Simmel’s classic investigation into secrecy and secret societies, this article intends to shed light on “external secrecy”, understood as the social practice of intentionally hiding information and knowledge from external actors that do not belong to the terrorist organisation. The paper explores how external secrecy takes the form of a sort of barrier system that can be crossed by individuals and can be built and removed by organisations. It also examines how external security in terrorist organisations can produce both opportunities for deliberate deception and risks of undesired manipulation by external actors. Finally, the article focuses on the inherent trade-off between the need for external secrecy and the quest for visibility in terrorist organisations. Overall, this discussion suggests the opportunity to develop a research programme on the management of secrecy in terrorism.
Research Interests:
Organizational Behavior, Social Sciences, Terrorism, International Studies, Intelligence Studies, and 13 morePolitical Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Secrecy, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Counter terrorism, Georg Simmel, Deception, History of Secret Societies, Non State Armed Actors, Espionage, Secret Societies, and Visibility/invisibility
On 3 February 2018, in the town of Macerata, an Italian citizen with far-right sympathies deliberately fired several shots from his car at nine African immigrants, injuring six. The article argues that this shooting can be considered an... more
On 3 February 2018, in the town of Macerata, an Italian citizen with far-right sympathies deliberately fired several shots from his car at nine African immigrants, injuring six. The article argues that this shooting can be considered an act of lone-actor terrorism, an anomaly in the Italian context. Based on the social science literature on this subject, the paper analyses the profile of the shooter and the dynamics of the attack. Moreover, adopting a relational perspective to radicalisation, it examines the attacker's interactions: on the one hand, he was in contact with different political organisations that could represent 'echo chambers' for the tacit validation or even the justification and amplification of radical beliefs, including on the relation between immigration and security; on the other hand, he was not subject to their discipline and social control. This peripheral social position helps explain this case of lone-actor terrorism, in a national context where far-right mobilisation and violence have historically assumed collective forms.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Immigration, Security, Political Science, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Neo-Fascism, Italian Politics, Radicalization, Racism, Italy, Right-Wing Extremism, Italian History, Firearms, Mass Shooting, Extreme and Far Right, CasaPound, The Far Right: Anti-Immigration Parties, Neofascist and Extreme Right Parties in Europe, Lone Actor Terrorism, and Forza Nuova
Novel COVID-19 is having far-reaching consequences worldwide. Security and security management are not immune from this influence. Building on the scientific literature, this article explores the mixed impact of this unexpected... more
Novel COVID-19 is having far-reaching consequences worldwide. Security and security management are not immune from this influence. Building on the scientific literature, this article explores the mixed impact of this unexpected macro-level phenomenon and its consequences on violent extremism and terrorism in the West, in the short and in the medium to long term. The paper looks at the influence on extremist beliefs and attitudes and, moreover, it examines the effects on extremist behaviors, with an emphasis on terrorist activities, drawing on a model of terrorist attack cycle. The COVID-19 pandemic can be interpreted as a global natural experiment that offers insight into causal processes, in the interplay among societal, group, and individual factors.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, Propaganda, Security Studies, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Conspiracy Theories, Radicalization, Political Ideology, Counter terrorism, National Security, Extremism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Extreme and Far Right, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Coronavirus COVID-19, Pandemic Coronavirus COVID19, COVID-19 PANDEMIC, and COVID-19 pandemic and extremism
In the vast literature on terrorism the choice of weapons has received relatively limited attention, despite the importance and visibility of this topic. Building on the literature on innovation in terrorism, the article first proposes a... more
In the vast literature on terrorism the choice of weapons has received relatively limited attention, despite the importance and visibility of this topic. Building on the literature on innovation in terrorism, the article first proposes a multi-level analytical framework that helps study terrorist weapon selection. It then investigates the use of weapons in jihadist attacks in Europe from 2014, with the rise of the so-called Islamic State, until 2020, based on an original database. The empirical analysis shows that the two traditional types of weapon of modern terrorism, firearms and explosives, were largely replaced by more primitive tools like melee weapons. In fact, in recent years jihadist terrorists in Europe have become less technologically advanced. Based on the original analytical framework, the article examines the reasons of this evolution, paying special attention to the use of the most common type of weapon in the database, bladed weapons, and the most lethal type, firearms.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, History of Violence, and 15 moreCounter terrorism, Extremism, Weapons, Weapons and Chemical Explosives, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Firearms, Crime-Terror Nexus, Foreign Fighters, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Lone Actor Terrorism, Terrorist Innovation, and Jihadism in Europe
The secret and its social organisation are of course vital for terrorists. In particular, members of terrorist organisations usually have to deal with complex processes to conceal information from outside actors (external security) but... more
The secret and its social organisation are of course vital for terrorists. In particular, members of terrorist organisations usually have to deal with complex processes to conceal information from outside actors (external security) but also from other members (internal security). However, scholars have paid relatively little attention to this dark side from an analytical and theoretical standpoint. The practice of secrecy in terrorism deserves particular attention at the 'meso' level of analysis, related to organisations; unlike most ordinary organisations, terrorist organisations have to manage particularly demanding trade-offs due to their clandestine nature. This analytical contribution aims to explore how internal secrecy within terrorist organisations affects two crucial organisational dimensions - internal communication, and coordination and control. In doing so, it also critically assesses two well-developed asymmetric information approaches, signalling theory and agency theory, showing that these analytical frameworks could shed new light on the study of secrecy management in terrorist organisations, provided that they are disconnected from a reductionist assumption of individual behaviour as invariably utilitarian and atomistic. In addition, drawing upon Simmel's classic interpretation of 'secret societies', the article argues that a fruitful interpretation of internal secrecy in terrorist organisations should include the critical role played by social trust.
Research Interests:
Communication, Social Sciences, Terrorism, Trust, Propaganda, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Secrecy, Organized Crime, Agency Theory, Georg Simmel, Social Trust, History of Secret Societies, Organizations, Non State Armed Actors, Jihadism, Intelligence and security studies, Terrorist Organizations, Signalling Theory, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, and Secret Society
Over the last few years, Italy has occupied a relatively marginal position with respect to the jihadist threat. Nonetheless, the propaganda of the Islamic State mentions Italy and the bordering Vatican with a seemingly disproportionate... more
Over the last few years, Italy has occupied a relatively marginal position with respect to the jihadist threat. Nonetheless, the propaganda of the Islamic State mentions Italy and the bordering Vatican with a seemingly disproportionate frequency. This article presents an in-depth analysis of all textual references in Dabiq and Rumiyah, the flagship magazines of this sophisticated jihadist organization. Overall, several mentions concern "Rome," intended as a symbol for the West and Christianity and with a number of other meanings. However, there is no lack of potentially worrying references to Italy, Italians, the Vatican, and the Pope.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Propaganda, Propaganda & Indoctrination Studies, Political Science, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Political communication, Radicalization, Islam, Political Ideology, Religious Extremism, Italy, Online Media, Symbols, Jihadism, Vatican, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and DABIQ
In recent years, jihadist-inspired armed groups and individuals have planned and, in some cases, actually carried out terrorist attacks in the West using various types of firearms - some of them with severe consequences. After presenting... more
In recent years, jihadist-inspired armed groups and individuals have planned and, in some cases, actually carried out terrorist attacks in the West using various types of firearms - some of them with severe consequences. After presenting an overview of the literature available on the subject, this article focuses on organizational-level terrorist weapon selection and, in particular, it addresses the issue of the acquisition and use of firearms for jihadist attacks in the West, on the basis of original data.
Research Interests:
Criminology, International Relations, Terrorism, Violence, Political Science, and 15 moreSecurity Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Counter terrorism, Extremism, Weapons, European Security, Al Qaeda, Salafi-jihadist groups, Jihadism, Small Arms and light weapons, Firearms, Terrorismo, STUDY OF FIREARMS, Islamic Terrorism, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 represented a crucial event in international politics. They took the world’s only superpower by surprise. How was it possible? Why did the US formidable intelligence system fail to prevent that... more
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 represented a crucial event in international politics. They took the world’s only superpower by surprise. How was it possible? Why did the US formidable intelligence system fail to prevent that catastrophe?
Today a large empirical record is available on al-Qaida’s surprise attacks and the US response (in particular, from the work of the “9/11 Commission”) and allows us to interpret and evaluate those events, fraught with major consequences.
This article investigates the causes of that resounding intelligence failure. The text refers to three complementary classes of factors: cognitive/psychological, organizational, and political. First, it examines cognitive and psychological factors and biases such as the «signal to noise ratio» problem, «crying wolf syndrome», «groupthink», wishful thinking and overconfidence. Second, it pays attention to organizational complexity and fragmentation, problems of cooperation and coordination, inter- and intra-organizational conflicts, and bureaucratic pathologies, with an emphasis on the role of the CIA and the FBI. Third, it looks at the responsibility of political decision-makers, by examining the problems arising from overcrowded political agendas, competing political priorities, and processes of intelligence «politicization». Finally, it focuses on the particular nature of the security threat posed by transnational terrorism.
Today a large empirical record is available on al-Qaida’s surprise attacks and the US response (in particular, from the work of the “9/11 Commission”) and allows us to interpret and evaluate those events, fraught with major consequences.
This article investigates the causes of that resounding intelligence failure. The text refers to three complementary classes of factors: cognitive/psychological, organizational, and political. First, it examines cognitive and psychological factors and biases such as the «signal to noise ratio» problem, «crying wolf syndrome», «groupthink», wishful thinking and overconfidence. Second, it pays attention to organizational complexity and fragmentation, problems of cooperation and coordination, inter- and intra-organizational conflicts, and bureaucratic pathologies, with an emphasis on the role of the CIA and the FBI. Third, it looks at the responsibility of political decision-makers, by examining the problems arising from overcrowded political agendas, competing political priorities, and processes of intelligence «politicization». Finally, it focuses on the particular nature of the security threat posed by transnational terrorism.
Research Interests:
Organizational Behavior, History, American History, Psychology, International Relations, and 82 moreOrganizational Theory, Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, International Studies, Intelligence Studies, Intelligence, Overconfidence, Disaster Studies, International Security, Conflict, War Studies, Surprise, Security, Political Science, Afghanistan, Homeland Security, New York history, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Secrecy, Surveillance Studies, Political History, Police, FBI History, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Political Violence, Iraq, Bureaucratic Politics, Post Cold War Era, Strategic Surprise, Asymmetrical Warfare, Middle East Politics, United States History, Global Terrorism, Taliban, Islamism, Agenda-setting Theory, Counter terrorism, Disaster Preparedness, 9/11 Literature, George W Bush adminstration, Political Islam, National Security (Intelligence), Non-state actors, Crisis, National Security, Osama bin Laden, Intelligence History, Al Qaeda, Suicide Terrorism, Early Warning System, Salafi-jihadist groups, Intelligence Failure, International Psychology, Secret Services, United States, Intelligence Analysis, Pearl Harbor, Twin Towers, 11 September Attacks, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Asymmetric Warfare, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, CIA, Politicization, Policing Intelligence and Counter Terrorism, September 11, Terrorist Organizations, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Armed Groups, Signal - to - noise ratio, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, 9/11 Studies, Robert Jervis, Al Qaida, U.S. Intelligence Community, NSA Surveillance, and Mohammed Atta
In recent years, thousands of radical citizens and residents from Europe have joined the so-called ‘Islamic State’ (IS) in Syria and Iraq. Unlike other European countries, Italy has traditionally been characterised by the prevalence of... more
In recent years, thousands of radical citizens and residents from Europe have joined the so-called ‘Islamic State’ (IS) in Syria and Iraq. Unlike other European countries, Italy has traditionally been characterised by the prevalence of individual pathways of radicalisation over group mechanisms. Nevertheless, recent cases show interesting indications of the increasing role of small groups based on pre-existing personal relationships (family and friendship ties). This kind of bond can be particularly salient for IS, a jihadist “proto-state”, which needs not only ‘foreign fighters’ but also new ‘citizens’ of different sexes and ages, including entire families.
Research Interests:
Religion, Sociology, Criminology, International Relations, Multiculturalism, and 71 moreSocial Networks, Social Sciences, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Middle East & North Africa, Intelligence Studies, Narrative, Subcultures, Propaganda, International Security, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Personal Relationships, Migration, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, Secrecy, Religious Conversion, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Second generation identity, Muslim Minorities, Migration Studies, Muslims in Europe, Islam, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Social and Groups Psychology, Political Ideology, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Ethnic Conflict and Civil War, Social Trust, The Internet, Mediterranean and North Africa, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Italy, Youth, Aggressive Behavior, Non-state actors, Jihad, National Security, Iraq War, Political Recruitment, Salafi-jihadist groups, Salafism, Second Generation Immigrants, Non State Armed Actors, Conversion to Islam, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Social Integration, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Islamic fundamentalism, Marginalization, Foreign Fighters, Threats, Islamic State, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Jihadist Networks, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Fanaticism, Syrian Civil War, Italian Society, Women and Terrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Abstract - Negli ultimi anni la minaccia del terrorismo, specialmente di matrice jihadista, si è fatta pressante anche in Europa. Sotto questo profilo, nemmeno l’Italia può considerarsi un paese “a rischio zero” e deve quindi predisporre... more
Abstract -
Negli ultimi anni la minaccia del terrorismo, specialmente di matrice jihadista, si è fatta pressante anche in Europa. Sotto questo profilo, nemmeno l’Italia può considerarsi un paese “a rischio zero” e deve quindi predisporre misure adeguate per fronteggiare la minaccia. Questo fatto stimola una riflessione sul ruolo che il sistema di Protezione civile (PC) potrebbe assumere di fronte al rischio terrorismo. È del tutto evidente che la PC non è chiamata a operare in prima linea. Anche all’interno del sistema di sicurezza civile italiano, disastri antropici come il terrorismo e il rilascio intenzionale di agenti nucleari, biologici, chimici e radiologici (NBCR) ricadono innanzitutto sotto la competenza della Difesa civile. Nondimeno anche la PC, forte delle sue capacità e delle esperienze maturate sul campo, potrebbe offrire un contributo rilevante in caso di attacchi terroristici, per quanto sempre entro i limiti dei suoi compiti e delle sue competenze. Rimane da definire in che cosa possa consistere effettivamente tale contributo nel contesto attuale. Di fronte a una questione che non ha ancora ricevuto una risposta univoca, appare utile avanzare alcune considerazioni preliminari. Innanzitutto, è chiaro che eventi gravi come quelli di tipo terroristico devono essere gestiti dalle istituzioni ai massimi livelli di competenza, per evitare problemi di coordinamento e trarre il massimo beneficio dalle risorse e capacità disponibili. In questo contesto, l’intervento della PC deve essere richiesto dalle autorità competenti e non può che seguire le direttive da queste impartite, proprio per assicurare il massimo livello di coordinamento e sinergia.
Il ruolo della Protezione Civile potrebbe collocarsi prevalentemente nelle fasi della gestione del post-emergenza e, se possibile, della prevenzione. A seconda delle circostanze, la PC potrebbe essere coinvolta per svolgere una gamma di compiti specifici, come il salvataggio, lo sgombero e l’assistenza degli scampati dall’evento; il presidio degli spazi e il diradamento e sfollamento dei presenti; l’assistenza di supporto alle forze in prima linea; l’aiuto alla messa in sicurezza di edifici danneggiati. Di particolare interesse potrebbe essere la partecipazione attiva al processo di comunicazione dell’emergenza, grazie alla presenza capillare sul territorio che la PC può vantare. Queste attività di intervento presentano elementi diversi da quelli che caratterizzano l’operato tradizionale della PC e per questa ragione richiedono una formazione adeguata e mirata.
In conclusione, appare evidente che il tema del coinvolgimento della PC nell’ambito di disastri causati da attacchi terroristici merita attenzione, specialmente nella presente fase storica.
Negli ultimi anni la minaccia del terrorismo, specialmente di matrice jihadista, si è fatta pressante anche in Europa. Sotto questo profilo, nemmeno l’Italia può considerarsi un paese “a rischio zero” e deve quindi predisporre misure adeguate per fronteggiare la minaccia. Questo fatto stimola una riflessione sul ruolo che il sistema di Protezione civile (PC) potrebbe assumere di fronte al rischio terrorismo. È del tutto evidente che la PC non è chiamata a operare in prima linea. Anche all’interno del sistema di sicurezza civile italiano, disastri antropici come il terrorismo e il rilascio intenzionale di agenti nucleari, biologici, chimici e radiologici (NBCR) ricadono innanzitutto sotto la competenza della Difesa civile. Nondimeno anche la PC, forte delle sue capacità e delle esperienze maturate sul campo, potrebbe offrire un contributo rilevante in caso di attacchi terroristici, per quanto sempre entro i limiti dei suoi compiti e delle sue competenze. Rimane da definire in che cosa possa consistere effettivamente tale contributo nel contesto attuale. Di fronte a una questione che non ha ancora ricevuto una risposta univoca, appare utile avanzare alcune considerazioni preliminari. Innanzitutto, è chiaro che eventi gravi come quelli di tipo terroristico devono essere gestiti dalle istituzioni ai massimi livelli di competenza, per evitare problemi di coordinamento e trarre il massimo beneficio dalle risorse e capacità disponibili. In questo contesto, l’intervento della PC deve essere richiesto dalle autorità competenti e non può che seguire le direttive da queste impartite, proprio per assicurare il massimo livello di coordinamento e sinergia.
Il ruolo della Protezione Civile potrebbe collocarsi prevalentemente nelle fasi della gestione del post-emergenza e, se possibile, della prevenzione. A seconda delle circostanze, la PC potrebbe essere coinvolta per svolgere una gamma di compiti specifici, come il salvataggio, lo sgombero e l’assistenza degli scampati dall’evento; il presidio degli spazi e il diradamento e sfollamento dei presenti; l’assistenza di supporto alle forze in prima linea; l’aiuto alla messa in sicurezza di edifici danneggiati. Di particolare interesse potrebbe essere la partecipazione attiva al processo di comunicazione dell’emergenza, grazie alla presenza capillare sul territorio che la PC può vantare. Queste attività di intervento presentano elementi diversi da quelli che caratterizzano l’operato tradizionale della PC e per questa ragione richiedono una formazione adeguata e mirata.
In conclusione, appare evidente che il tema del coinvolgimento della PC nell’ambito di disastri causati da attacchi terroristici merita attenzione, specialmente nella presente fase storica.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Sociology of Disaster, Social Psychology, Terrorism, International Terrorism, and 50 moreSubsidiarity, Disaster Studies, Resilience, Conflict, Disaster risk management, Crisis communication and management, Security, Political Science, Homeland Security, Crisis Management, Political Violence and Terrorism, Crisis Communication, Social Media, Training, Regionalism, Risk communication, Disaster Management, Disaster Response, Strategic Surprise, Emergency Management, Volunteerism, Counter terrorism, Disaster Preparedness, 9/11 Literature, Earthquake, Italy, Emergency Response, Civil Protection, Lombardia, Institutions, Disasters, Emergency planning and management, Emergency Response,Recovery and Preparedness, Volunteering, Disaster Mitigation, al-Qaeda, Civil Defense, Eupolis, Disaster Recovery, Emergency Preparedness, Terrorist and natural disasters, CBRN Terrorism, Protezione Civile, Volontariato, Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Hybrid War, Italian Society, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Educazione alla Protezione Civile
This ICCT Research Paper examines the current extent of Italy's Sunni jihadists in Syria. Italy presents interesting particularities, including a relatively small number of foreign fighters compared to other European countries (around one... more
This ICCT Research Paper examines the current extent of Italy's Sunni jihadists in Syria. Italy presents interesting particularities, including a relatively small number of foreign fighters compared to other European countries (around one hundred, and only a small minority with Italian passports, according to recent estimates), the scant presence of domestic recruitment networks operating within the country and the prevalence of individual pathways of radicalisation over group mechanisms. However, the Italian case has not been extensively investigated. This exploratory paper, based on a case study-driven approach, first examines the scale of the problem and then focuses on the individual cases of four Italian nationals who differ in terms of both sex and origin. It also takes into account the different reactions of their families.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Criminology, International Relations, Self and Identity, Social Networks, and 80 moreSocial Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, International Studies, Propaganda, International Security, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, Ideology, Political communication, Islam in Europe, Religious Conversion, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Turkey, Armed Conflict, Migration Studies, Syria, Islam, Transnational migration, Islamophobia, Counterterrorism (CT), Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Political Mobilization, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Italy, Religious Studies, Prisons, Jihad, Radicalisation, National Security, Internet and politics, Iraq War, Political Recruitment, Salafi-jihadist groups, Second Generation Immigrants, Case Study, Contemporary Italy, Jihadism, Indoctrination, al-Qaeda, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Beliefs and attitudes, Counter Radicalization, Italian foreign policy, Genoa, Marginalization, Western converts to Islam, Aleppo, Foreign Fighters, Homegrown Terrorism, Mosque, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Jihadist Networks, Syrian Conflict, Migration and Security, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Micro-level Study, Niqab, Fanaticism, Hybrid War, Syrian Civil War, Italian Society, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Muhajirs, Illiberalism, Daesh, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
This article explores the current extent of Italy's Sunni jihadists in Syria and Iraq. The country presents interesting particularities, including a relatively small number of foreign fighters compared to other European countries (not... more
This article explores the current extent of Italy's Sunni jihadists in Syria and Iraq. The country presents interesting particularities, including a relatively small number of foreign fighters compared to other European countries (not more than 90 individuals, and only a dozen with Italian passports). However, the Italian case has not been extensively investigated. This article first examines the scale of the problem and then focuses on the cases of three Italian nationals who left for Syria: a convert who died in combat in the Aleppo area in 2013, a second-generation immigrant who joined the ranks of the Islamic State (IS) and a muhajira ("emigrant") who, as a woman, has not been allowed to take combat roles in the self-proclaimed "caliphate".
Keywords: Terrorism; radicalisation; jihadism; foreign fighters; muhajirin; Islamic State; Italy
Keywords: Terrorism; radicalisation; jihadism; foreign fighters; muhajirin; Islamic State; Italy
Research Interests:
Religion, Sociology, Criminology, International Relations, Social Sciences, and 27 moreTerrorism, Conflict, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Religious Conversion, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Syria, Islam, Islamophobia, Counter terrorism, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, Jihad, Radicalisation, Second Generation Immigrants, al-Qaeda, Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Since the mid-1980s, Italian insurrectionary anarchists have been responsible for dozens of attacks both within Italy and abroad. For more than a decade, the prevailing tactics were small-scale acts of vandalism, sabotage and arson.... more
Since the mid-1980s, Italian insurrectionary anarchists have been responsible for dozens of attacks both within Italy and abroad. For more than a decade, the prevailing tactics were small-scale acts of vandalism, sabotage and arson. However, since the late 1990s, insurrectionary anarchist militants have increasingly used more dangerous methods such as bombings and assaults. Today, insurrectionary anarchist violence is generally regarded as the most dangerous form of domestic non-jihadist terrorism in Italy. Furthermore, in many respects, Italy represents the birthplace of a threat that has spread in many countries. The paper aims to examine the rise of insurrectionary anarchist terrorism in Italy, a neglected topic in the literature. The text focuses on four aspects. First, it traces the ideological roots of this extremist tendency. Second, it examines the escalation of violence in the twenty-first century, paying particular attention to the most important entity, the Informal Anarchist Federation, FAI, a loose network that emerged in 2003. The discussion is based on an original data set of 50 acts of violence claimed by the Italian FAI from 2003 to 2014. Third, it explores the peculiar organisational structure of the FAI. Finally, it analyses the repertoire of action and the strategies of target selection.
Keywords: terrorism; insurrectionary anarchism; Italy; Informal Anarchist Federation; letter bombs
Keywords: terrorism; insurrectionary anarchism; Italy; Informal Anarchist Federation; letter bombs
Research Interests:
Southern Europe, Terrorism, Violence, Strategic Studies, Political Science, and 27 moreAnarchism, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Italian Politics, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, History of Anarchism, Political Violence, Extremist Groups, Post-left anarchism, Counter terrorism, Italian Radical Thought, Italy, Radical Environmentalism, Radicalism, Affinity Groups, Direct Action, Anarchism, Insurrection, Ccf, Lone Wolf Terrorist, Anticapitalism, Lonewolf Terrorism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Uncivilization/anti-civilization, Leaderless Organization, and Conspiracy of Cells of Fire
The Italian Five Star Movement (FSM) is one of the most interesting political phenomena in contemporary Europe. On one hand, this populist anti-establishment party has expressed a critical, albeit ambiguous, position on the European Union... more
The Italian Five Star Movement (FSM) is one of the most interesting political phenomena in contemporary Europe. On one hand, this populist anti-establishment party has expressed a critical, albeit ambiguous, position on the European Union and the euro. In particular, the FSM’s euroscepticism became apparent during the 2014 European Parliament (EP) elections. On the other hand, analysis of the voting behaviour in the EP shows that the Movement differs from the ‘hard’ eurosceptic UKIP, its main ally in the Europe of Freedom and Direct Democracy (EFDD) grouping, and is often closer to the pro-EU parties, in particular the Green group. Overall, the FSM’s euroscepticism is more strategic than ideological.
Research Interests:
Social Movements, European Studies, Voting Behavior, Political Parties, Political Campaigns, and 27 morePolitical Science, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Political communication, Populism, Italian Politics, European Politics, European Union, Parliamentary Studies, European Parliament, Direct Democracy, Participatory Democracy, Elections, Candidate Selection, Elections and Voting Behavior, Election Campaigning, Legislative Studies, Italy, Internet and politics, Euroscepticism, Populismo, European Parliament elections, Party System, Beppe Grillo, Movimento 5 Stelle, Euroskepticism, Movimento Cinque Stelle, and Five Stars Movement
Research Interests:
Terrorism, International Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, and 23 moreHistory of Terrorism, Radicalization, European Politics, Muslims in Europe, Islam, Middle East Politics, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Conflict Resolution, Islam, Violence, Terrorism, Peace, Italy, Jihad, Salafi-jihadist groups, al-Qaeda, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Homegrown Terrorism, Islamist movements, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Lone Wolf Terrorism, AQAP, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
Research Interests:
Gender Studies, Women's Studies, Terrorism, Violence, Political Violence and Terrorism, and 20 moreIsrael/Palestine, Gender, History of Terrorism, Suicide, Political Violence, Islamic Studies, Women and Gender Issues in Islam, Martyrdom, Taliban, Religion and Violence, Sacrifice, Jihad, al-Qaeda, Suicidio, Pkk, Religion Female Terrorist, Female Terrorism, LTTE, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, and Women and Terrorism
Terrorist groups operate under conditions of secrecy. The secret represents both a constraint and an opportunity. Surprisingly, scholars have paid little attention to the study of the organisation of secrecy in terrorism. This article... more
Terrorist groups operate under conditions of secrecy. The secret represents both a constraint and an opportunity. Surprisingly, scholars have paid little attention to the study of the organisation of secrecy in terrorism. This article aims to explore this relevant subject. It is divided into four sections. Following Simmel's classic remarks, the first section shows that terrorist groups can be interpreted as forms of secret society. The second section examines the effect of secrecy on the internal organisation of terrorist groups, with particular reference to the management of organisational dilemmas. The third section analyses the secrecy/visibility trade-off. The conclusion outlines some distinctive characteristics of terrorist groups compared to other forms of secret societies, such as secret services and crime enterprises.
Research Interests:
Criminology, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Sociology of Crime and Deviance, Trust, and 19 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Organization Studies, Secrecy, Anonymity, Organizational Trust, Georg Simmel, Social Trust, History of Secret Societies, Transparency, Political Recruitment, Non State Armed Actors, al-Qaeda, Covert Network, Simmel, Red brigades, Secret, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Secret Society, and Covert Communication
Research Interests:
Criminology, Terrorism, Italian (European History), Anarchism, Political Violence and Terrorism, and 13 morePolitical Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Italian Politics, Political Violence, Post-left anarchism, Counter terrorism, Italy, Radical Environmentalism, Anti-imperialism, Crime, Direct Action, Anarchism, Insurrection, Anticapitalism, and Ecoterrorism
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
L’offensiva senza precedenti lanciata contro Israele da Hamas e altri gruppi armati attivi nella Striscia di Gaza il 7 ottobre 2023 e la successiva controffensiva militare di Israele sollevano interrogativi sull’impatto che il conflitto... more
L’offensiva senza precedenti lanciata contro Israele da Hamas e altri gruppi armati attivi nella Striscia di Gaza il 7 ottobre 2023 e la successiva controffensiva militare di Israele sollevano interrogativi sull’impatto che il conflitto in Medio Oriente potrebbe avere in termini di rischio terrorismo, anche in Europa. A confermare apparentemente le preoccupazioni a questo riguardo, appena pochi dopo l’offensiva a sorpresa guidata da Hamas si sono registrati due attacchi letali di matrice jihadista, esplicitamente ispirati alla causa del cosiddetto Stato Islamico o Daish: un accoltellamento in una scuola della cittadina francese di Arras il 13 ottobre 2023 e una sparatoria a Bruxelles il 16 ottobre.
Il capitolo si pone l’obiettivo di indagare i potenziali effetti del conflitto in Medio Oriente sulla minaccia jihadista in Europa, sulla base delle informazioni attualmente disponibili. Il testo è organizzato in tre parti. La prima delinea l’attuale stato del jihadismo in Europa, con l’obiettivo di presentare concisamente le condizioni e dinamiche che il conflitto e i suoi effetti potrebbero mutare. La seconda parte esamina la salienza della questione palestinese per la causa jihadista, sottolineando anche somiglianze e differenze tra i gruppi radicali palestinesi e le organizzazioni del jihadismo globale. Sulla base di queste considerazioni, la terza parte si sofferma sul possibile impatto del conflitto sul terrorismo e la radicalizzazione jihadista in Europa, nel breve e nel medio-lungo periodo.
Il capitolo si pone l’obiettivo di indagare i potenziali effetti del conflitto in Medio Oriente sulla minaccia jihadista in Europa, sulla base delle informazioni attualmente disponibili. Il testo è organizzato in tre parti. La prima delinea l’attuale stato del jihadismo in Europa, con l’obiettivo di presentare concisamente le condizioni e dinamiche che il conflitto e i suoi effetti potrebbero mutare. La seconda parte esamina la salienza della questione palestinese per la causa jihadista, sottolineando anche somiglianze e differenze tra i gruppi radicali palestinesi e le organizzazioni del jihadismo globale. Sulla base di queste considerazioni, la terza parte si sofferma sul possibile impatto del conflitto sul terrorismo e la radicalizzazione jihadista in Europa, nel breve e nel medio-lungo periodo.
Research Interests:
European Studies, Terrorism, Propaganda, International Security, War Studies, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Ideology, Israel/Palestine, Radicalization, Middle East Politics, Islamism, Religion and Violence, Palestinian-Israeli conflict, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Hamas, Gaza Strip, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
This chapter examines the jihadist mobilization which has affected European countries from 2014 onwards, with an emphasis on terrorist attacks. The text is divided into four main sections: the first examines the relevant issue of foreign... more
This chapter examines the jihadist mobilization which has affected
European countries from 2014 onwards, with an emphasis on terrorist
attacks. The text is divided into four main sections: the first examines the relevant issue of foreign terrorist fighters, the second and third sections analyze, respectively, the characteristics of terrorist attacks and the profiles of terrorist attackers, based on original data, while the fourth section explores the evolution of terrorist plots, with an eye on future scenarios.
European countries from 2014 onwards, with an emphasis on terrorist
attacks. The text is divided into four main sections: the first examines the relevant issue of foreign terrorist fighters, the second and third sections analyze, respectively, the characteristics of terrorist attacks and the profiles of terrorist attackers, based on original data, while the fourth section explores the evolution of terrorist plots, with an eye on future scenarios.
Research Interests:
European Studies, Social Sciences, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Security Studies, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, History of Political Violence, Radicalization, Counterterrorism (CT), Religious Extremism, National Security, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Foreign Fighters, Intelligence and security studies, Islamist movements, Threats, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Syrian Civil War, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
Research Interests:
Sociology, Social Sciences, Propaganda, Security, Political Science, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Ideology, Radicalization, Religious Extremism, Religion and Violence, Italy, Prisons, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Foreign Fighters, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Syrian Civil War, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
This chapter aims to concisely examine the current relationship between violent extremism and the tools offered by digital communication technologies, particularly the Web. As is well-known, the internet has become a crucial environment... more
This chapter aims to concisely examine the current relationship between violent extremism and the tools offered by digital communication technologies, particularly the Web.
As is well-known, the internet has become a crucial environment for violent extremism and for terrorism across the ideological spectrum.
The Web can perform different functions in this field. This chapter presents and discusses six areas of application, in decreasing order of proximity to the actual
use of violence: 1) cyberattacks; 2) dissemination of operational instructions; 3) hacking and “doxing”; 4) recruitment and terrorist “virtual entrepreneurship”; 5) propaganda; 6) financing.
As is well-known, the internet has become a crucial environment for violent extremism and for terrorism across the ideological spectrum.
The Web can perform different functions in this field. This chapter presents and discusses six areas of application, in decreasing order of proximity to the actual
use of violence: 1) cyberattacks; 2) dissemination of operational instructions; 3) hacking and “doxing”; 4) recruitment and terrorist “virtual entrepreneurship”; 5) propaganda; 6) financing.
Research Interests:
International Relations, Terrorism, Propaganda, International Security, Political Science, and 14 moreSecurity Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political communication, Social Media, Radicalization, Cyber Terrorism, Political Ideology, Hacking, Internet and politics, Jihadism, Anti money laundering and Terrorist Financing, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
This chapter examines the narratives of radical Islamists and other extremely violent groups. In particular, the focus is on groups that rely, partially or exclusively, on terrorism to achieve their political ends. Terrorism can be seen... more
This chapter examines the narratives of radical Islamists and other extremely violent groups. In particular, the focus is on groups that rely, partially or exclusively, on terrorism to achieve their political ends. Terrorism can be seen as a combination of violence and communication. Narratives are often a crucial part of this communication activity. A useful perspective to approach this question is represented by framing theory. This well-established and sophisticated perspective has been widely used to study, in particular, social movements. However, it can also be fruitfully applied to the analysis of terrorist organizations and militants. A key element in this line of research is the distinction of three "core framing tasks" : "diagnostic" framing (concerning the problem), "prognostic" framing (concerning the solution), and "motivational" framing (concerning the " call to arms "). On the basis of this tripartition, the work explores the narrative of the so-called Islamic State (IS), the more influential and dangerous terrorist organisation of our age.
Research Interests:
Religion, Sociology, Political Sociology, Social Movements, International Relations, and 72 moreVisual propaganda, Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, Narrative, Religion and Politics, Propaganda, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Governance, Collective Action, Political Violence and Terrorism, Ideology, Identity politics, Secrecy, Political communication, Eschatology and Apocalypticism, History of Terrorism, Political Legitimacy, Radicalization, Social Movements (Political Science), Political Violence, Muslim Minorities, Media, Syria, Islam, Narrative Analysis, Narrative Theory, Persuasion, Political Ideology, Religious Extremism, Islamism, Quran, Political Mobilization, Beheading, Sacrifice, Religious Fundamentalism, Motivation, Violent Non-State Actors, Utopia, Jihad, Shariah, Militancy, Framing, Political Uses of Fear, Magazines, Iraq War, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Non State Armed Actors, Representation of the Enemy, Enemies, Jihadism, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Utopia/dystopia, Free Riding, Shi'ite and Sunni Split, Framing Theory, Foreign Fighters, Islamist movements, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Framing Analysis, Depersonalisation, PROTO-STATES, Religious and Political Violence, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Daesh, DABIQ, and spersonalizzazione
Italy has a long history of struggle against terrorism. At least since the mid-1970s, it has developed a national counterterrorism (CT) strategy, combining a range of different tactics and tools. Over the decades Italy has had to respond... more
Italy has a long history of struggle against terrorism. At least since the mid-1970s, it has developed a national counterterrorism (CT) strategy, combining a range of different tactics and tools. Over the decades Italy has had to respond to many forms of violence: ethno-nationalist, right-wing, left-wing, anarchist, and jihadist. It is worth noting that right-wing, left-wing, and anarchist terrorism represented an indigenous phenomenon, even if many of these armed groups had significant connections abroad. On the contrary, ethno-nationalistic terrorism in the 1960s was perceived as inspired and supported by foreign forces, and jihadist terrorism is now a transnational threat.
This chapter outlines the evolution of Italy’s CT policy, from a social
science perspective. It distinguishes two major phases. In the first phase (from the 1960s to the 1980s), during the time of the so-called First Republic at the national level and the Cold War at the international level, the country dealt with separatist violent incidents and, above all, with a long and intense campaign of right-wing and left-wing terrorism, during the Anni di piombo (Years of Lead). In the second phase (from the 1990s to the present day), at the time of the Second Republic and in the post-Cold War era, Italy has had to face new challenges, especially from jihadist extremism.
This chapter outlines the evolution of Italy’s CT policy, from a social
science perspective. It distinguishes two major phases. In the first phase (from the 1960s to the 1980s), during the time of the so-called First Republic at the national level and the Cold War at the international level, the country dealt with separatist violent incidents and, above all, with a long and intense campaign of right-wing and left-wing terrorism, during the Anni di piombo (Years of Lead). In the second phase (from the 1990s to the present day), at the time of the Second Republic and in the post-Cold War era, Italy has had to face new challenges, especially from jihadist extremism.
Research Interests:
History, European History, Sociology, Social Movements, Criminal Justice, and 91 moreInternational Relations, Western Europe, Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, Marxism, Intelligence Studies, Italian Studies, Propaganda, Political Science, Anarchism, Cold War, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Neo-Fascism, Foreign Policy, Political History, Police, Italian Politics, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Protest, Memory Studies, Armed Conflict, Muslims in Europe, Democracy, Counterterrorism (CT), New Left, Right Wing Terrorism, Political Ideology, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Use of Force & Counter-terrorism, Reconciliation, War on Terror, Law Enforcement, Left wing terrorism in Western Europe, Italy, Murder, Prisons, National Security, Contentious Politics, Police and Policing, Salafi-jihadist groups, South Tyrolean question, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Non State Armed Actors, Deportation, Jihadism, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Aldo Moro, Italian foreign policy, Policing Intelligence and Counter Terrorism, Italian democracy, Anarchism, Insurrection, Italy Years of Lead, Neofascism, Democrazia Cristiana, Foreign Fighters, Brigate Rosse (BR), Marxism-Leninism, Kidnapping, Anni di piombo, Red brigades, Intelligence Services, Terrorist Organizations, Partito comunista italiano, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Carabinieri, Neofascismo, Terrorists on Trial, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Terrorist attacks, Seventies Political Movement History, Social Movements and Contentious Politics, Democracy and Violence, Victims of Terrorism, Cossiga, Terrorist Prisoners, The Seventies in Italian History, Terrorismo in Italia, Prima Repubblica, Foreign Terrorist Fighters, Seconda Repubblica, Democracy and Terrorism, Pentitismo, Repentance Laws, Antiterrorismo in Italia, Insurrectionary anarchist terrorism, and Gambizzazioni
Research Interests:
Organizational Behavior, International Relations, Communication, Media Studies, Brand Management, and 27 moreTerrorism, Propaganda, Political Science, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Secrecy, Political communication, Symbolism, Social Media, Radicalization, Islamic Studies, Iraq, Syria, Middle East Politics, Counter terrorism, Ethnic Conflict and Civil War, Beheading, Insurgency, Jihad, al-Qaeda, Counter Narratives, Terrorist Organizations, Caliphate, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, and Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi
Research Interests:
European Studies, European integration, Political Parties, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Nationalism, and 25 morePopulism, Italian Politics, European Politics, European Union, National Identity, European Parliament, European Union Politics, Radical Right, Radical Right Populism, UKIP, Euroscepticism, Radical Right-wing Populist Parties, Extreme and Far Right, Lega Nord, Populismo, Front National, Populist Parties, European Parliament elections, Movimento 5 Stelle, Antipolitics, Euroskepticism, Politica Italiana, Italian Populism, Five Stars Movement, and Anti-establishment
Research Interests:
Religion, Sociology of Religion, Terrorism, Death Studies, Religion and Politics, and 21 morePolitical Science, Death & Dying (Thanatology), Political Violence and Terrorism, History of Terrorism, Suicide, History of Anarchism, Modernity, Secularization, Islam, Religion and Modernity, Martyrdom, Sacrifice (Anthropology Of Religion), Religion and Violence, Suicide Terrorism, Hunger strikes, al-Qaeda, Northern Ireland and the Troubles, Provisional IRA, Self-Sacrifice, Voluntary Martyrdom, and RAF Rotée Armé fraktion
Research Interests:
International Relations, Terrorism, Conflict, Political Science, Security Studies, and 23 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Interstate and Intrastate War, Israel/Palestine, Palestine, Political Violence, Asymmetrical Warfare, Middle East Politics, Martyrdom, Counter terrorism, Israel, Arab-Israeli conflict, Palestinian Studies, Peace Processes, Suicide Terrorism, Suicide bombing, Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Fatah, Hamas, Two-Level Games, Armed Groups, Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, and The Logic of Suicide Terrorism
Italy is a crucial epicenter of insurrectionary anarchism, a transnational extremist tendency that promotes “self-organized” illegal and violent actions, even against people. In particular, over the last two decades, dozens of acts of... more
Italy is a crucial epicenter of insurrectionary anarchism, a transnational extremist tendency that promotes “self-organized” illegal and violent actions, even against people. In particular, over the last two decades, dozens of acts of violence, including letter bombs, homemade bombs, and shootings, have been claimed under the banner of the Informal Anarchist Federation (Federazione Anarchica Informale, FAI), a loosely connected network that has also fostered relationships with likeminded groups abroad. The Italian counterterrorism system has successfully addressed this threat with aggressive rules, measures, and practices, that, in part, derive directly or indirectly from the long fight against the Mafia. However, today Italian authorities face a new challenge, posed by the case of Alfredo Cospito, an influential exponent of the FAI network who started an indefinite hunger strike in prison in October 2022. The handling of the Cospito affair highlights the complex political, legal, and ethical dilemmas that liberal democracies have to address in combating terrorism.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Human Rights, Propaganda, Security, and 15 moreAnarchism, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Martyrdom, Political Ideology, Counter terrorism, Post-Anarchism, Italy, Greece, Prisons, Mafia, Hunger strikes, Ethical dilemmas, Anarchism, Insurrection, and Hunger Strikes and Protest
This report analyzes the jihadist terrorist attacks that were successfully executed in North America and Europe between June 29, 2014 (the date of the self-proclamation of the Islamic State’s "caliphate") and September 11, 2022, based on... more
This report analyzes the jihadist terrorist attacks that were successfully executed in North America and Europe between June 29, 2014 (the date of the self-proclamation of the Islamic State’s "caliphate") and September 11, 2022, based on a original dataset.
Research Interests:
Terrorism, International Security, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, and 15 moreCounter terrorism, Prisons, Salafi-jihadist groups, Conversion to Islam, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Victims, Crime-Terror Nexus, Foreign Fighters, Islamic State, Attacks, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Syrian Conflict, and Terrorism and Counterterrorism
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is causing deaths all over the world, upsetting society, the economy, and politics, changing our lives. At this level of intensity, it is destined to reach and arguably replace terrorism in the position... more
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is causing deaths all over the world, upsetting society, the economy, and politics, changing our lives.
At this level of intensity, it is destined to reach and arguably replace terrorism in the position of great fear of our time, especially during a phase of apparent decline of jihadism, at least in the West.
It can then be useful to compare these two risks and fears, terrorism and the coronavirus.
At this level of intensity, it is destined to reach and arguably replace terrorism in the position of great fear of our time, especially during a phase of apparent decline of jihadism, at least in the West.
It can then be useful to compare these two risks and fears, terrorism and the coronavirus.
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Disaster Studies, Fear, Political Science, and 15 moreEmergency Management, Counter terrorism, Extremism, Risk Perception, Disaster risk reduction, Global Epidemics, Threats, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Pandemic, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Covid-19, Coronavirus COVID-19, Pandemic Coronavirus COVID19, and COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Research Interests:
Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, Political Science, Security Studies, and 15 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Islamism, Religion and Violence, Italy, National Security, Jihadism, Terrorismo, Attacks, Lone Wolf Terrorist, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Jihadist Networks, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Violent Extremism, and Lone Actor Terrorism
Negli ultimi anni, l’Italia non è stata colpita da attacchi terroristici di matrice jihadista, né ha sperimentato gli elevati livelli di radicalizzazione di alcuni dei suoi vicini europei. Significativamente, il numero di foreign fighters... more
Negli ultimi anni, l’Italia non è stata colpita da attacchi terroristici di matrice jihadista, né ha sperimentato gli elevati livelli di radicalizzazione di alcuni dei suoi vicini europei. Significativamente, il numero di foreign fighters che hanno abbandonato il territorio italiano per unirsi allo Stato Islamico o ad altri gruppi jihadisti – circa 130 individui – è molto più basso se comparato ai numeri della Francia, della Germania, del Regno Unito, ma anche di paesi più piccoli come l’Austria o il Belgio.
Questo quadro di relativa quiete, tuttavia, presenta un’importante eccezione, riguardante la propaganda dello Stato Islamico, che menziona l’Italia e, in particolare, Roma con una frequenza che può apparire sproporzionata.
Analizzando i contenuti ufficiali in lingua inglese pubblicati dallo Stato Islamico a partire dalla proclamazione del “Califfato” (nel giugno del 2014), il presente studio di carattere esplorativo ha contato 432 riferimenti all’Italia, al Vaticano e a Roma. La città è frequentemente citata, con diverse accezioni, anche nella propaganda in lingua araba. L’analisi dei riferimenti individuati mostra che, a parte alcune eccezioni significative, lo Stato Islamico riserva particolare attenzione all’Italia perché si riferisce a Roma come simbolo dell’Occidente e della Cristianità. La maggior parte delle menzioni, infatti, riprende fonti islamiche secondarie che affermano che il Giorno del Giudizio giungerà soltanto quando i musulmani combatteranno i “Romani”, e profetizzano la loro conquista di “Roma” (originariamente sulla base di un riferimento storico al confronto secolare tra le forze musulmane e i “Romani” d’Oriente - ovvero i Bizantini - in epoca medievale).
A ogni modo, la posizione centrale che la capitale italiana occupa nei messaggi jihadisti – anche in senso figurato – è un fenomeno allarmante, poiché può essere interpretata dai seguaci dello Stato Islamico come un’esortazione a compiere attacchi nella Città Eterna o, più in generale, in Italia.
Questo quadro di relativa quiete, tuttavia, presenta un’importante eccezione, riguardante la propaganda dello Stato Islamico, che menziona l’Italia e, in particolare, Roma con una frequenza che può apparire sproporzionata.
Analizzando i contenuti ufficiali in lingua inglese pubblicati dallo Stato Islamico a partire dalla proclamazione del “Califfato” (nel giugno del 2014), il presente studio di carattere esplorativo ha contato 432 riferimenti all’Italia, al Vaticano e a Roma. La città è frequentemente citata, con diverse accezioni, anche nella propaganda in lingua araba. L’analisi dei riferimenti individuati mostra che, a parte alcune eccezioni significative, lo Stato Islamico riserva particolare attenzione all’Italia perché si riferisce a Roma come simbolo dell’Occidente e della Cristianità. La maggior parte delle menzioni, infatti, riprende fonti islamiche secondarie che affermano che il Giorno del Giudizio giungerà soltanto quando i musulmani combatteranno i “Romani”, e profetizzano la loro conquista di “Roma” (originariamente sulla base di un riferimento storico al confronto secolare tra le forze musulmane e i “Romani” d’Oriente - ovvero i Bizantini - in epoca medievale).
A ogni modo, la posizione centrale che la capitale italiana occupa nei messaggi jihadisti – anche in senso figurato – è un fenomeno allarmante, poiché può essere interpretata dai seguaci dello Stato Islamico come un’esortazione a compiere attacchi nella Città Eterna o, più in generale, in Italia.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Political Sociology, International Relations, Visual propaganda, Social Sciences, and 86 moreGlobalization, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Intelligence, Religion and Politics, Arabic, Propaganda, International Security, Conflict, War Studies, Propaganda & Indoctrination Studies, Apocalypticism, Political Science, Information Warfare, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Ideology, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Political communication, Eschatology and Apocalypticism, Strategic Communication, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Byzantine History, Islam, Information operations (IO), History Of Propaganda, Political Ideology, Christianity and Rome, Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Religion and Violence, The Internet, Islam and the West, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Italy, Jihad, National Security, Iraq War, Salafi-jihadist groups, Manipulation, Non State Armed Actors, Koran, Charismatic leadership, Hadith, Symbols, Jihadism, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Invention of Traditions, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Islamic fundamentalism, Political narratives, War Propaganda, Vatican, Threats, Islamic State, Attacks, Terrorist Organizations, Apocalyptic literature in Islam; End of the world Islam; hadith literature and apocalypse, Caliphate, Escathology, Syrian Conflict, Messaging, Religion and Terrorism, Strategic Narratives, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Popes, Religious and Political Violence, Terrorist Recruitment, Fanaticism, Islamic Tradition, Sunnah, Italian Society, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Political Escathology, Doctrines, Daesh, Abu Bakr Al-Baghdadi, DABIQ, Abu Musab al Zarqawi, Amaq, Terrorist propaganda, and Rumiyah
Italy’s experience with jihadism presents some interesting peculiarities. At first glance, there are several overlapping reasons to consider the country as a major hub of jihadist mobilization and target for terrorist attacks. Yet,... more
Italy’s experience with jihadism presents some interesting peculiarities. At first glance, there are several overlapping reasons to consider the country as a major hub of jihadist mobilization and target for terrorist attacks. Yet, somewhat counterintuitively, Italy has not faced a particularly intense challenge from jihadist terrorism. Levels of domestic radicalization are, by any account, significantly lower than in most other European and Western countries.
Overall, Italy has a diverse jihadist scene that resembles that of other European countries, but which is substantially smaller in size and less sophisticated. Nonetheless, over the course of the past 12 months, various incidents have increased Italian counterterrorism authorities’ concerns, as they reveal Italian links to foreign attacks and growth in the homegrown scene. Italian authorities have developed skills and legal tools that are useful in confronting jihadist terrorism. These
repressive tactics, however, have not been accompanied by an equally robust preventive approach. Unlike most Western countries, in fact, Italy has not yet developed any systematic program or strategy aimed towards counter-radicalization or de-radicalization.
Overall, Italy has a diverse jihadist scene that resembles that of other European countries, but which is substantially smaller in size and less sophisticated. Nonetheless, over the course of the past 12 months, various incidents have increased Italian counterterrorism authorities’ concerns, as they reveal Italian links to foreign attacks and growth in the homegrown scene. Italian authorities have developed skills and legal tools that are useful in confronting jihadist terrorism. These
repressive tactics, however, have not been accompanied by an equally robust preventive approach. Unlike most Western countries, in fact, Italy has not yet developed any systematic program or strategy aimed towards counter-radicalization or de-radicalization.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, and 60 moreItalian Studies, Propaganda, Security, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political communication, Religious Conversion, Organized Crime, Italian Politics, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Political Violence, Muslim Minorities, Muslims in Europe, Islam, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Counterterrorism (CT), Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Social Groups, Military, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, Violent Non-State Actors, Jihad, Radicalisation, National Security, Iraq War, Police and Policing, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Second Generation Immigrants, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Non State Armed Actors, Deportation, Milano, Italian Terrorism, Counter Radicalization, Crime-Terror Nexus, Foreign Fighters, Homegrown Terrorism, Threats, Intelligence Services, Terrorist Organizations, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Syrian Conflict, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Mindset of a Terrorist, Irregular Migration and Security In Europe, Terrorismo in Italia, Foreign Terrorist Fighters, Administrative deportation, Terrorism in Italy, and Terrorist risk
Research Interests:
Sociology, Criminology, European Studies, International Relations, Multiculturalism, and 72 moreSocial Networks, Social Sciences, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, Subcultures, Propaganda, International Security, Immigration, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Homeland Security, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, Ideology, Secrecy, Religious Conversion, Immigration And Integration In Europe, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Second generation identity, Muslim Minorities, Marginalized Identities, Muslims in Europe, Syria, Islam, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Counterterrorism (CT), Political Ideology, Islamism, Counter terrorism, France, Law Enforcement, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Youth, Non-state actors, Jihad, Radicalisation, National Security, Iraq War, Suicide Terrorism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Salafism, Suicide bombing, Second Generation Immigrants, United States, Conversion to Islam, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Counter Radicalization, North America, Marginalization, Foreign Fighters, Threats, Islamic State, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Jihadist Networks, Deradicalization, PROTO-STATES, Violent Extremism, Fanaticism, Syrian Civil War, Women and Terrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Quasi States, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Research Interests:
Sociology, Criminology, European Studies, International Relations, Multiculturalism, and 54 moreSocial Sciences, Terrorism, International Terrorism, International Studies, Intelligence Studies, Subcultures, Propaganda, International Security, Immigration, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, Ideology, Secrecy, Political communication, Radicalization, Political Violence, Islamic Studies, International Migration, Muslim Minorities, Muslims in Europe, Syria, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Global Terrorism, Political Ideology, Islamism, Counter terrorism, France, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Youth, Jihad, National Security, Iraq War, Suicide Terrorism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Salafism, Second Generation Immigrants, al-Qaeda, Counter Radicalization, Terrorist network analysis, Marginalization, Foreign Fighters, Threats, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Women Roles in Terrorism, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Fanaticism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Il gruppo armato noto con la sigla di ISIS in inglese (o Da'ish in arabo) si è imposto all’attenzione della comunità internazionale e dell’opinione pubblica, specialmente dopo le conquiste territoriali dell’ultimo anno. Nel giugno del... more
Il gruppo armato noto con la sigla di ISIS in inglese (o Da'ish in arabo) si è imposto all’attenzione della comunità internazionale e dell’opinione pubblica, specialmente dopo le conquiste territoriali dell’ultimo anno.
Nel giugno del 2014 questa organizzazione di ispirazione salafita-jihadista ha proclamato unilateralmente l’instaurazione del «califfato» e ha mutato il proprio nome in «Stato Islamico».
Da'ish non è il primo gruppo armato, anche di matrice jihadista, che si serve massicciamente di vari mezzi di comunicazione moderni, compresi i social media, ma lo fa con un livello di sofisticatezza e professionalità senza precedenti. Infatti questa organizzazione ha orchestrato una complessa e sofisticata campagna di propaganda di portata globale, che si rivolge a pubblici differenti, ricorrendo a vari canali e piattaforme. Tale attività costituisce evidentemente un aspetto fondamentale del conflitto in cui è impegnata e serve diversi scopi: legittimare la propria autorità; reclutare militanti e fiancheggiatori e motivare i simpatizzanti; intimidire e condizionare i nemici.
Il presente studio, dopo aver esaminato il ‘brand’ del cosiddetto «Stato islamico», indaga i principali strumenti di propaganda utilizzati da questa organizzazione: i discorsi ufficiali, le riviste, i video, le comunicazioni sui social media, la controinformazione di ispirazione ‘giornalistica’ e gli altri mezzi.
Nel giugno del 2014 questa organizzazione di ispirazione salafita-jihadista ha proclamato unilateralmente l’instaurazione del «califfato» e ha mutato il proprio nome in «Stato Islamico».
Da'ish non è il primo gruppo armato, anche di matrice jihadista, che si serve massicciamente di vari mezzi di comunicazione moderni, compresi i social media, ma lo fa con un livello di sofisticatezza e professionalità senza precedenti. Infatti questa organizzazione ha orchestrato una complessa e sofisticata campagna di propaganda di portata globale, che si rivolge a pubblici differenti, ricorrendo a vari canali e piattaforme. Tale attività costituisce evidentemente un aspetto fondamentale del conflitto in cui è impegnata e serve diversi scopi: legittimare la propria autorità; reclutare militanti e fiancheggiatori e motivare i simpatizzanti; intimidire e condizionare i nemici.
Il presente studio, dopo aver esaminato il ‘brand’ del cosiddetto «Stato islamico», indaga i principali strumenti di propaganda utilizzati da questa organizzazione: i discorsi ufficiali, le riviste, i video, le comunicazioni sui social media, la controinformazione di ispirazione ‘giornalistica’ e gli altri mezzi.
Research Interests:
Religion, Communication, Media Studies, Terrorism, International Terrorism, and 27 moreMiddle East Studies, Iraqi History, Propaganda, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Eschatology and Apocalypticism, Social Media, Insurgency/Counterinsurgency(COIN), Political Violence, Islamic Studies, Twitter, Syria, Islam, Counter terrorism, Beheading, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Jihad, Iraq War, Salafi-jihadist groups, Salafism, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Islamic State of Iraq and Syria
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Sociology, Criminology, European Studies, International Relations, Terrorism, and 27 moreInternational Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, Italian Studies, Religion and Politics, Propaganda, War Studies, Political Science, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, Radicalization, Insurgency/Counterinsurgency(COIN), Iraq, Syria, Middle East Politics, Counter terrorism, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Italy, Jihad, al-Qaeda, Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Fanaticism, and Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant
Research Interests:
Organizational Behavior, American History, Sociology, Social Psychology, Strategy (Military Science), and 27 moreAmerican Politics, International Relations, Terrorism, Decision Making, International Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, International Security, Conflict, Political Science, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, FBI History, Political Violence, Intelligence and Espionage, Bureaucratic Politics, Strategic Surprise, Middle East Politics, Counter terrorism, 9/11 Literature, George W Bush adminstration, Osama bin Laden, Suicide Terrorism, Intelligence Failure, Intelligence Analysis, 11 September Attacks, al-Qaeda, and CIA
The figure of the suicide bomber is peculiar and enigmatic. Unfortunately, we have little empirical evidence to investigate the motivations of people who are willing to sacrifice their life in order to kill others. Most scholars agree... more
The figure of the suicide bomber is peculiar and enigmatic. Unfortunately, we have little empirical evidence to investigate the motivations of people who are willing to sacrifice their life in order to kill others. Most scholars agree with the idea that there is not a typical profile. Suicide bombers present different motivations. This paper explores the complex galaxy of suicide bombers’ motivations, drawing on the scientific literature on this topic. Three types of individual motivations can be analytically distinguished: interests, values and affects.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Psychology, Social Psychology, Terrorism, Violence, and 27 moreInternational Terrorism, Values, Political Science, Self Harm, Political Violence and Terrorism, Israel/Palestine, Suicide, Islam, Suicidology, Jon Elster, Martyrdom, Individualism, 9/11 Literature, Analytical Sociology, Sacrifice, Emotions, Jihad, Rationality, Suicide Terrorism, Suicide bombing, Self-Immolation, Palestinian-Israeli conflict, al-Qaeda, Suicidio, Psychology of Terrorism, Motivation of Suicide Bombers, and Shahid
Research Interests:
Terrorism, Anarchism, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Anarchist Studies, and 10 moreItalian Politics, Political Violence, Extremist Groups, Post-left anarchism, Italian Radical Thought, Italy, Extremism, Affinity Groups, Direct Action, and Anarchism, Insurrection
Research Interests:
European Studies, International Relations, Foreign Policy Analysis, International Studies, Italian Studies, and 22 moreInternational Security, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Politics, Foreign Policy, Italian Politics, Diplomacy, European Politics, International Politics, Italy, Defence and Security, National Security, Relazioni Internazionali, Multilateralism, Defense and National Security, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Italian foreign policy, Diplomacy and international relations, Politica Estera, Politica Italiana, and italia politica estera
Research Interests:
Sociology, Cultural Studies, International Relations, Media and Cultural Studies, Social Sciences, and 25 moreTerrorism, Internet Studies, Subcultures, Propaganda, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Culture, Political communication, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Fandom, Alternative Media, Islamophobia, Online social networks, Narrative Analysis, Political Ideology, Islamism, Jihad, Salafi-jihadist groups, Salafism, Right-Wing Extremism, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Extreme and Far Right, and Consumption Culture
Research Interests:
Social Movements, Greek History, Southern Europe, Terrorism, Violence, and 20 moreAnarchism, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, History of Terrorism, Radicalization, Social Movements (Political Science), Political Violence, Modern Greece, Social movements and revolution, Counter terrorism, Greece, Social Conflict, Ccf, Terrorist, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Interviewing Terrorists, Disengagement from Terrorism, Conspiracy of Cells of Fire, 17November, and Revolutionary Struggle
Research Interests:
Organizational Behavior, Sociology, Political Economy, Organizational Communication, Organizational Theory, and 17 moreTerrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Organization Studies, History of Terrorism, Political Violence, Counter terrorism, War on Terror, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Non State Armed Actors, al-Qaeda, Clandestine Network, Principal Agent Theory, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, and Secret Society
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Sociology, Criminology, International Relations, Peace and Conflict Studies, Terrorism, and 51 moreViolence, Intelligence Studies, Propaganda, Combat Veterans, Immigration, Conflict, War Studies, Security, Immigration Studies, Political Science, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Political Violence, Intergenerational Relationships, Muslim Minorities, Muslims in Europe, Islam, Counterterrorism (CT), Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, War in Bosnia, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, Jihad, Radicalisation, National Security, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Generations, Police and Policing, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Second Generation Immigrants, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Contemporary Italian History and Politics, Returnees, Intergenerational Relations, Foreign Fighters, Global Jihad, Countering Violent Extremism, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Jihadist Networks, Syrian Conflict, Migration and Security, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Iraq and Syria, Terrorist Recruitment, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Research Interests:
Criminal Law, Terrorism, International Terrorism, Human Rights, Immigration, and 43 moreSecurity, Political Science, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Violence Prevention, National Security Law, Radicalization, Political Violence, Terrorism And The Law, Counterterrorism (CT), Religious Extremism, Islamism, Italian Law, Counter terrorism, Freedom of Speech, Administrative Law, Citizenship, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, National Security, Extremism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Second Generation Immigrants, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Deportation, Jihadism, al-Qaeda, Antimafia, Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Homegrown Terrorism, Western Jihadism, Human Rights, Terrorism and National Security, Countering Violent Extremism, Nationality Laws, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Immigration Detention and Deportation, Counter Terrorism and Human Rights, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Citizenship and Naturalization Law, and Ministry of Interior
Examining the case study of one Italian woman who travelled to Syria, Dr. Marone sheds light on some of the particularities concerning Italy's jihadists, including the relevance of foreign recruitment networks operating within the country... more
Examining the case study of one Italian woman who travelled to Syria, Dr. Marone sheds light on some of the particularities concerning Italy's jihadists, including the relevance of foreign recruitment networks operating within the country and the prevalence of individual pathways of radicalisation over group mechanisms.
Research Interests:
Sociology, Sociology of Religion, International Relations, Social Sciences, Sociology of Violence, and 59 moreTerrorism, International Terrorism, Religion and Politics, Propaganda, International Security, Conflict, Propaganda & Indoctrination Studies, Political Science, Migration, Political Violence and Terrorism, Ideology, Political Extremism/Radicalism/Populism, Civil War, Gender, Religious Conversion, Women, Social Media, Radicalization, Political Violence, Syria, Islam, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Global Terrorism, Emigration Research, Islamism, Counter terrorism, The Internet, Albania, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Insurgency, Italy, Jihad, Crime, Political Recruitment, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Case Study, Criminal profiling, Italian foreign policy, Foreign Fighters, al-Baghdadi, Islamic State, Terrorist Organizations, Integralismo, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Italian police, migration, Albania, Italy, Armed Groups, Terrorist Radicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Iraq and Syria, Fanaticism, Syrian Civil War, Italian Society, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Muhajirs, Religion based terrorism: Recruitment Indoctrination and Inculcation, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Research Interests:
International Relations, Terrorism, Intelligence Studies, Immigration, Political Science, and 27 moreMigration, Irregular Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Turkey, Migration Studies, Islamism, Refugees, Albania, Middle East, Italy, Greece, Balkans, National Security, Western Balkans, Islam in Balkans, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Foreign Fighters, European Migration Policy, terrorism, migration, EU, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Migration and Security, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Iraq and Syria, Syrian Civil War, and Irregular Migration and Security In Europe
Research Interests:
Sociology, European Studies, International Relations, Social Sciences, Terrorism, and 27 moreViolence, Middle East & North Africa, North Africa Studies, War Studies, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Radicalization, Mediterranean, Syria, Islam, Counter terrorism, Mediterranean and North Africa, Middle East, Italy, Libya, Jihad, Iraq War, Salafi-jihadist groups, Arab Spring (Arab Revolts), Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Deradicalization, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Research Interests:
Terrorism, Violence, Political Violence and Terrorism, Political Violence, Syria, and 19 moreMiddle East Politics, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Italy, Jihad, Iraq War, Salafism, al-Qaeda, Boko Haram, Foreign Fighters, Homegrown Terrorism, al-Baghdadi, Islamic State, Terrorist Organizations, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Lone Wolf Terrorism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, ISIL, and DABIQ
Research Interests:
Sociology, Social Sciences, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, and 58 morePropaganda, International Security, Conflict, War Studies, Political Science, Migration, Security Studies, Political Violence and Terrorism, Secrecy, Religious Conversion, Italian Politics, Social Media, Radicalization, Second generation identity, Muslim Minorities, Muslims in Europe, Syria, Islamophobia, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Political Ideology, Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, Jihad, Radicalisation, Lombardia, Iraq War, Police and Policing, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Salafism, Second Generation Immigrants, Non State Armed Actors, Conversion to Islam, Jihadism, Salafi-Jihadi Ideology, Counter Radicalization, Islamic fundamentalism, Western converts to Islam, Foreign Fighters, Threats, Islamic State, Jihadism and Radical Islamism, Islam in Italy, Syrian Conflict, Deradicalization, Terrorism and Counterterrorism, Jabhat Al-Nusra, PROTO-STATES, Fanaticism, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Quasi States, Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Muslims In Italy, and Foreign Terrorist Fighters
Research Interests:
Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, Conflict, Migration, and 34 morePolitical Violence and Terrorism, Religious Conversion, Radicalization, Second generation identity, Syria, Islam, Muslim Converts / Reverts (Sociology), Emigration Research, Religious Extremism, Islamism, Counter terrorism, Middle East, Religious Fundamentalism, Italy, Jihad, Radicalisation, Salafi-jihadist groups, Radicalism, Salafism, Second Generation Immigrants, Conversion to Islam, al-Qaeda, Counter Radicalization, Foreign Fighters, Islamic State, Seconde Generazioni Italia, Deradicalization, Jabhat Al-Nusra, Fanaticism, Syrian Civil War, Italian Society, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Daesh, and DAISH
Research Interests:
Religion, Sociology, Terrorism, Violence, International Terrorism, and 23 moreConflict, Political Science, Political Violence and Terrorism, Politics, History of Terrorism, Suicide, Radicalization, Political Violence, Islam, Suicidology, Martyrdom, Sacrifice (Anthropology Of Religion), Religious Extremism, Islamism, Albert Camus, Religious Fundamentalism, Jihad, Suicide Terrorism, Salafi-jihadist groups, Ritual Purity, Self-Sacrifice, Voluntary Martyrdom, and Jihadism and Radical Islamism
ABSTRACT In the vast literature on terrorism the choice of weapons has received relatively limited attention, despite the importance and visibility of this topic. Building on the literature on innovation in terrorism, the article first... more
ABSTRACT In the vast literature on terrorism the choice of weapons has received relatively limited attention, despite the importance and visibility of this topic. Building on the literature on innovation in terrorism, the article first proposes a multi-level analytical framework that helps study terrorist weapon selection. It then investigates the use of weapons in jihadist attacks in Europe from 2014, with the rise of the so-called Islamic State, until 2020, based on an original database. The empirical analysis shows that the two traditional types of weapon of modern terrorism, firearms and explosives, were largely replaced by more primitive tools like melee weapons. In fact, in recent years jihadist terrorists in Europe have become less technologically advanced. Based on the original analytical framework, the article examines the reasons of this evolution, paying special attention to the use of the most common type of weapon in the database, bladed weapons, and the most lethal type, firearms.