The Connection between Reputation Building & Target Selection of Terrorist Orgs

• In Event: Reputation, Representation and Rhetoric of Violent Non-state Actors

Abstract

Terrorist organizations do not attack random targets, but rather there is a strategic logic behind their target selection. While most groups are known for deliberately targeting civilians, a considerable number of them simultaneously go after “hard targets,” mounting attacks against military personnel, police forces, and government officials including high-profile political leaders. Given that these targets are well-protected, costlier to attack, and that there is a greater likelihood of retaliation, why would some terror groups focus relatively more of their attacks on hard targets than others? Utilizing the Reputation of Terror Groups Dataset (1980-2011) and including indicators from the Global Terrorism Database, this study shows that that terror groups that seek to build a good reputation among their local constituents and foster a positive connection by engaging in community-minded activities are more likely to go after hard targets. Similarly, terrorist groups that are less concerned about their reputation, and that pursue strategies that maim, frustrate, and alienate their constituents, will be less likely to practice restraint in terms of their target selection, and prefer to concentrate their attacks on soft targets. By illustrating the link between reputation building and target selection, this study suggests novel ways to counter the threat posed by reputationally-motivated terror groups.

Author

• Burcu Pinar Alakoc, University of Chicago