Kaunert Christian

This book analyses the securitization of ethnic identities and social groups by the state in Afghanistan in the post-2001 context. Securitization is arguably the most successful theoretical framework to analyse security beyond the military confines. Yet, despite its broadening agenda, the securitization framework has been accused of a Western bias. This book analyses the extent and the modalities and practices of the securitization of ethnic identities and social groups (e.g. women) by the state in Afghanistan post-2001, which is especially relevant following the takeover by the Taliban in August 2021. It puts forward a more nuanced argument by analytically distinguishing and empirically testing state policies, practices, and perspectives on ethnic and social groups that are largely informed by the fear and legacies of civil war (1978–2001). The work argues that the traditional lack of a stable state identity that could function as a basis for ontological security in Afghanistan has resulted in a persistent state of fragility exacerbated by the legacies and fears of civil war that have had a direct impact on the development of the state’s perspectives on ethnic and social groups. Whilst the state does not necessarily indulge in explicit securitization practices and discourses, securitization often takes place through implicit activities to undermine ethnic and social groups’ ability to enter political, economic, and socio-cultural competitions fairly and equitably, which would, in turn, enable these groups to challenge the state. The securitization process, therefore, has had an impact on the ability of these groups to benefit from opportunities fairly and equitably. This book will be of much interest to students of critical security studies, statebuilding, Asian politics, and International Relations in general.

This book examines the use of communications efforts in preventing and challenging extremist narratives online. These efforts are part of the expansive and well-resourced sector of preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE). They leverage technology tools (algorithms, direct messaging, and audience targeting) to communicate counter-extremist messaging across various digital platforms. The research and discussion focus on the role of strategic communications in deradicalizing and changing the behavioral features of ‘vulnerable’ and ‘at-risk’ audiences susceptible to extremist messaging. This approach views radicalization pathways toward violence as a key issue to tackle within online P/CVE communication efforts. This book investigates this problem and seeks to understand and assess the role, efficacy, and implications of such efforts within the broader counter-terrorism (CT) landscape, using UK counter-terrorism efforts (via the Prevent Strategy) as its primary contextual source. This analysis applies the theory of socialization, referred to in this study as ‘socialization and reasoned action strategic communication’ (SoRaSCo). The authors identify strategic communications deficiencies and offer insights for developing a roadmap for strategic communications in P/CVE in the UK and globally. Drawing on extensive research, the book provides crucial insights for policymakers, researchers, and the public interested in new trends in P/CVE, counter-terrorism, strategic communications, and policing interventions.