Jihadi Video in the 'War of Ideas'

Al-Qaeda has displayed an impressive grasp of electronic media in its strategic communication for propaganda, recruitment and mobilisation. It understands that the power of modern communication lies in resonance, channelling unconscious feelings towards a message and narrative that give meaning to its messages. Its media provide visual context for these messages that appeal to the emotions for motivation and to reason for persuasion. It has shown a sophistication worthy of top US political media in driving its own political messages. They have found power in different modes and channels of communication, but video has suited the purposes of violent extremists well and would be a mistake to underestimate their ability, flexibility, imagination and effectivness.