ISIS RECRUITMENT OF CHILDREN IN SYRIA

The Islamic State militant group produces a lot of propaganda, advertising the brutality of its punishments and promising an idyllic life in areas under its control with streams of videos, photos and music (Alfred). It is obvious that a huge amount of resources are being expended in creating all of the output and making sure that it sends the right message and sticks to the brand. The ads are sent over the internet to maximize the number of views in both the region and internationally.

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When ISIS first started using propaganda, their ads were geared towards creating international awareness and outrage. Now, their ads are focused more regionally. The ads are used to deter rebellions within the region by filming and distributing public executions of alleged spies or conspirators. This shift is believed to be caused by the change in the Islamic State’s priorities (Alfred).

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Photo essays consisting of 5-15 photos are the most common form of propaganda currently being used. There are two different types of photo essays that are being released. The first, focused on showing how great the Islamic state is. These photos feature children playing, plentiful amounts of food in markets and happy families. Critics of these ads are claiming that some of the ads that are being distributed are photos that seem to be choreographed of people playing games and enjoying their time. This means that ISIS is then trying to convey a sense that Islam is pristine, enjoyable and holy, despite the true conditions. The second is quite the opposite. These photos focus on what could happen to you or your family if you were to disobey the laws of the Islamic State. These are photos of executions, be-headings and other violent acts (Alfred).

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There have been several stories released of stonemasons’ workshops and goldsmiths markets. These ads are selling a specific message that the lands that the Islamic State controls are the lands of plenty (Alfred). Contrary to what the propagandists would have us believe, there is not abundant food in these territories. This causes problems with the health of the community members of these countries. Their lack of food and needs are not being met, even though ISIS is claiming otherwise. These ads also closely relate to the peace and justice of this region. The families that are still living in these regions have no choice other than to trust in the Islamic State leaders. If they were to disobey the laws, they would be killed and used as public example. This lack of religious freedom is controlling every aspect of the citizen’s lives.

Instead of expanding and taking over other areas, they are more focused on securing and stabilizing the areas they already have control over (Alfred).