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Noord-Holland: Identifying radical and violent organizations and their networks

When an organization incited public disturbance and violence online, we supported policy advice and prevention by analyzing the underlying online dynamics: social media usage, demographics and identification of local networks.

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alina-grubnyak-ZiQkhI7417A-unsplash

Challenge

What exactly is the link between what happens on the streets and how people behave online? Can we spot organizations, networks and communities based on their online activities?

Solution

We analyze the activities of the organization on social media and the matching demographics, along with key social media users. We support the policy department in implementing prevention measures.

Result

We uncovered a network of small local organizations that fueled online discussions leading to polarization. We also managed to identify its leader. We also analyzed the recruitment tactics being used to funnel people to a more radical organization responsible for violence against police.