Processes of De-Radicalization in Intelligence and Counter Terrorism

30.06.2023 | Merve ÖNENLİ GÜVEN

Intelligence plays a crucial role in the fight against terrorism. By the identification of the characteristics of terrorist organizations by intelligence methods, the characteristics of a terrorist organization at the micro level can be determined and this analysis provides an understanding for the characteristics and functions of this organization. This study examines the mechanism of de-radicalization processes as a counterterrorism strategy against the PKK in the context of the relationship between intelligence and counterterrorism. This study conducts a literature review on the concepts of radicalization, terrorism and de-radicalization and analyzes the radicalization processes in the PKK through individual-group relations within the framework of the documents of the organization and the narratives of former members of the organization by using the content analysis method. Based on the key findings, the main elements of persuasion are described within the scope of the evaluations made on the motivations and reasons for the individual’s participation in the PKK at the micro level through the participation behavior and the behavior of staying in the organization. The conclusion of the study presents the direct and asymmetric gains against the PKK through the de-radicalization mechanism and persuasion.

Önenli Güven, M. (2023). Processes of De-Radicalization in Intelligence and Counter Terrorism. Journal of Intelligence Research and Studies, 2(2), pp.221-243, DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.29228/icad.19