Terrorists continue to adapt their methods and narratives to exploit global events, digital technology, and societal vulnerabilities.
The EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report (EU TE-SAT) 2024, published today by Europol, provides a detailed overview of the evolving terrorism landscape in the European Union in 2023.
Catherine De Bolle, Executive Director of Europol, said that in today’s changing world, terrorist actors continuously adapt their narratives, outreach and activities in response to the most recent geopolitical and socioeconomic developments.
She added, “The targeting of young people and their involvement by terrorist groups, including their active role in the production of online propaganda and the planning of attacks, is an increasing concern.
“Equally concerning is the use of AI and other technology by terrorist groups to strengthen their messages and facilitate their operations. Europol and its partners stand resolute to combat these emerging developments through strong partnerships and innovative solutions.”
According to her, the EU TE-SAT 2024 underscores the adaptive nature of terrorist threats.
She noted that law enforcement can counter these evolving challenges and protect our communities by leveraging real-time intelligence, fostering cross-border collaboration, and employing advanced technologies.
The 7 October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent military response in Gaza have triggered global reactions. Hamas widely shared propaganda from the initial attack to mobilise jihadist groups globally.
Terrorist groups used the high number of civilian casualties to develop propaganda, radicalise individuals and intensify calls for violence. Hamas utilised the crisis to secure funding via money transfers, cryptocurrencies, and Hawala networks. Some of these transfers potentially came from the EU.
The conflict and the propaganda stemming from it have unified extremist narratives across jihadist, right-wing, left-wing, and anarchist groups, sparking online incitement to violence, particularly targeting Jewish and Israeli interests worldwide. This has amplified anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim tensions within the EU. Regionally, Hezbollah’s confrontations with Israel raise EU security concerns.
The involvement of young people in terrorism-related activities is growing. Terrorist groups increasingly exploit online platforms and gaming environments to reach younger audiences. Disseminating content like videos, music and memes, these groups radicalise individuals and mobilise them for propaganda production, recruitment, and even attacks.
Furthermore, radicalisation has sped up; the time between initial exposure to extremist content and violent action has significantly decreased.
Increased anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim rhetoric has heightened societal tensions, resulting in strong polarisation of certain groups. Meanwhile, both jihadist and right-wing extremists have used the Israel-Hamas conflict to promote their narratives and inspire action.
The dual nature of technology emerges when it is exploited by terrorist groups, which are capitalising on advancements in AI and encrypted communication technologies to further their operations. AI-generated deepfakes are being used for propaganda and disinformation, while encrypted messaging apps provide secure communication channels for planning and recruitment. Innovation has been used for weaponry, with 3D-printed firearms becoming more popular, particularly among right-wing extremists.
