Testimony of Steven Emerson Before the United States House Committee on Homeland Security Subcommittee on Intelligence, Information Sharing, and Terrorism Risk Assessment "The Homeland Security Implications of Radicalization" September 20, 2006 Steven Emerson Executive Director The Investigative Project on Terrorism 5505 Conn. Ave NW #341 Washington DC 20015 Email:
[email protected] Phone 202-363-8602 Fax 202-966-5191 Executive Summary The radicalization of Muslim populations in Western societies has leapt to the forefront of homeland security concerns due to the rise in homegrown terrorist plots in the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia. Every episode of radicalization is a unique process, nonetheless these episodes often, but not always, share several commonalities, including, but not limited to, a charismatic spiritual leader, mosque attendance, an Internet connection, and overseas travel. Homegrown terrorism poses a challenge to law enforcement because the individuals in the plots, prior to their radicalization, have not necessarily shown any evidence of extremist views, much less any connection to terrorist activity. They appear to lead normal lives, at times even after indoctrination into an extremist ideology. The examples to be presented demonstrate that there are several underlying similarities characterizing homegrown terrorism. Those involved come from an array of backgrounds, but are largely first or second-generation Americans with a Middle Eastern or South Asian ethnic origin. The significant role played by Islamic converts is apparent in the cases of the “Virginia jihad network,” the recent Canadian plot, the Folsom prison case, the Portland Seven and the London bombing cell. The majority of these radicalized individuals who become involved in such plots are below the age of 30 and are often times radicalized in private study circles or by individuals they meet at their place of worship.