Mapping White Identity Terrorism and Racially or Ethnically Motivated Violent Extremism: A Social Network Analysis of Online Activity

Abstract

In this research publication, we provide a social network analysis of the global White identity terrorist movement and racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist networks. In it, we respond to congressional requirements for such a study to be completed by an independent research institute to inform government efforts to build a strategy to counter these threats. We began by reviewing existing literature on these movements to outline a baseline of knowledge and identify key gaps. We then collected and analyzed social media data from six social media platforms that host extremist content. Using this material, we developed a network map that evaluated network construction, connectivity, geographic location, and proclivity to violence. We also examined this issue in greater detail in ten countries: Canada,