Examining counter-terrorism policies through the motivational sources of terrorist organizations: The cases of PKK and ISIS

Terrorism and terror are significant concepts in today's world, both in terms of national and international security. Terror is generally defined as a deliberate series of actions targeting the public through violence and fear, often carried out with political or ideological objectives. Terrorism, on the other hand, refers to the systematic planning and execution of such acts with the intent of conveying a political or ideological message.Although the history of terrorism is quite old, the origins of modern terrorism can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Revolutionary movements, struggles for national independence, and ideological conflicts have played a critical role in the proliferation of terrorism. For instance, the assassination attempts against the Russian Tsardom and the methods employed by the Jacobins during the French Revolution are notable examples from this period. The motivational sources of terrorism are highly complex and typically emerge from the interplay of multiple factors. Elements such as social exclusion, ideological motivations, external support, and the desire for power and control are among the most influential drivers. Understanding and addressing these motivational factors is of critical importance for the development of effective counter-terrorism strategies. Counter-terrorism policies are shaped through the involvement of states, international organizations, and civil society actors. A multidimensional approach is required—one that incorporates economic, social, and political reforms. Moreover, measures such as intelligence sharing, international cooperation, and cross-border security are also essential components. This study aims to contribute to the academic literature by analyzing the motivations behind individuals' participation in the terrorist organizations PKK and ISIS, and by evaluating the counter terrorism policies implemented against them. To achieve this, a qualitative research approach was employed, specifically utilizing the descriptive thematic content analysis method in accordance with the study's objectives. Through thematic analysis, the social media communications of individuals affiliated with terrorist organizations were decoded and analyzed within the framework of motivational categories. The analysis clearly reveals the motivational elements that influence individuals who join terrorist organizations. The findings indicate that ideological factors, economic hardship, identity and belonging needs, a sense of victimization, and the guiding influence of one's social environment play decisive roles in the recruitment process. These results not only provide significant insights into the human resource recruitment strategies of terrorist organizations but also contribute to the formulation of more effective counter-terrorism policies.