CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF MEDIA TERRORISM AS A THREAT TO THE NATIONAL SECURITY OF THE COUNTRY

Abstract

The article examines the characteristic features of media terrorism. The author characterizes the relevant aspects of the theory of terrorism and media terrorism. It is determined that countering the influence of russian propaganda requires an integrated approach at the state, public and information levels. The ways of building a systematic approach to counteracting the influence of Russian propaganda are proposed. The number of terrorist attacks in the world in recent years was analyzed according to the Global Terrorism Database. The most famous terrorist organizations in the world in 2023 are identified. The concept of «state terrorism» is defined in a narrow and broad sense. The list of actions that may include state terrorism is determined, in particular: attacks on civilians, cyber attacks, kidnappings or terrorist acts against foreign state structures. It is proved that state terrorism is a violation of international law and the fight against its actions includes international efforts: sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and the possibility of a military response to deter aggressive states that violate international peace and security. It is determined that the term «terrorist state» is a subjective expression used in a political context to express a negative opinion about a particular country or its government, which is accused of supporting terrorist organizations. It is determined that counteracting the influence of russian propaganda requires a comprehensive approach at various levels – state, public and information. The author identifies ten measures – elements of a systematic approach that includes the work of government agencies, media, NGOs and citizens to counteract the influence of russian propaganda, in particular: information literacy, government support for independent media, international cooperation, counter-propaganda, regulation of social networks, cybersecurity protection, civic participation, monitoring and analysis of russian propaganda, intersectoral cooperation, diplomacy and public diplomacy. The author has formed his own approach to the interpretation of the concept of «media terrorism» – the use of mass media to spread terrorist ideas, support and advertise terrorist organizations, as well as to cause fear and panic among the public in society. The author characterizes the organizations that record media terrorist attacks in the world, which include: international organizations and agencies, national law enforcement agencies, national security and defense departments, public and non-governmental organizations, research centers and monitoring organizations. The author characterizes the similarities and differences between the concepts of «terrorism» and «media terrorism».