Media Strategy of ISIS: An Analysis

Abstract

ISIS is one of the most sophisticated, brutal and technology savvy armed militia that is using media to project its self-image of a legitimate political and religious institution in order to multiply war victories, propagate its ideology, recruiting international youth, threatening opponents, and nevertheless to brand itself as a mighty power. Increased influence of media in contemporary strategic affairs was motivational for ISIS to formulate a media policy in order to reach out maximum number of audience with minimum cost and time. As a result, ISIS successfully attracted international media and influenced their agenda. Present penetration of ISIS in international media is providing it considerable attention to influence public opinion and making it centre of attraction. Despite the willingness to limit ISIS supported media, international community is unable to achieve its objective due to ISIS's strategy of decentralization of media. Despite military capabilities and control and command, it is its media strategy which is constructing images and building public perceptions in its favour through different means and methods.