Government actions against online threats have become increasingly urgent as extremist groups expand their online presence and influence. Recently, two nations have showcased notable initiatives to combat these challenges.
First, the United States has outlined plans to establish a national investment fund aimed at addressing various pressing issues, including online threats. The executive order mandates the Departments of Treasury and Commerce to present this plan within 90 days. The structure of the fund will include recommendations on 'funding mechanisms, investment strategies, fund structure, and governance models.' If successful, this fund would position the U.S. alongside other nations, particularly those in the Middle East and Asia, which have enacted similar funds for direct government investments.
Despite this ambitious plan, concerns loom over the U.S.'s current deficit situation and the necessity for Congressional approval prior to establishing the fund. Former President Donald Trump mentioned aspirations to create wealth for the fund, asserting the need for the nation to have such an investment tool.
The fund could potentially be financed through tariffs and other strategic measures. Globally, the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds indicates the existence of over 90 funds managing more than $8 trillion worth of assets. Certain U.S. states also possess separate asset funds reliant on revenue from natural resources such as oil and land.
Intriguingly, Trump also hinted at the possibility of this national fund purchasing TikTok, the app currently embroiled in controversy due to national security concerns. With 170 million users across the U.S., TikTok's future remains uncertain as regulatory pressures mount. The deadline for TikTok’s owner to sell the app or face prohibition came early this year, and Trump suggests the government might decide TikTok's fate by February.
Simultaneously, Australia has intensified its approach to online threats by sanctioning Terrorgram, labeled as a platform encouraging white supremacy and racially motivated violence. This decisive action emphasizes Australia's commitment to combating anti-Semitism and ensuring public safety. The new sanctions categorize engaging with Terrorgram’s assets as criminal activity, punishable by up to ten years imprisonment and/or substantial fines.
Australian National University expert Simon Copland voiced concerns about the growing threat from online extremist groups. He noted, "We might not be experiencing the same levels of threat as the U.S. or Europe, but the risk of terrorism is increasingly severe within Australia." This declaration follows the government’s unprecedented decision to impose sanctions on entirely online entities, highlighting Terrorgram’s role as facilitators of extremist groups.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong elaborated on the government's commitment to oppose hate and extremism of all forms. “Terrorgram has enabled white supremacists and terrorists,” Wong stated during her interview with ABC News. “This is the first time the Australian government has imposed such sanctions, and we do this to keep Australians safe.” The sanctions extend also to anti-Semitic groups associated with white nationalism.
Despite these government interventions, experts caution against the potential adaptability of extremist groups. Copland pointed out, "These groups may find new strategies to circumvent restrictions. They continue to grow, adapting to countermeasures imposed upon them." This reflects the challenging dynamics of extremist ideologies online.
For clarity, Terrorgram operates as a decentralized network comprising Telegram channels dedicated to promoting violent extremism and terrorism linked to far-right ideologies. Research unveiled over 200 Telegram channels supporting neo-Nazi terrorism, shedding light on Terrorgram’s operational structure and problematic content.
Wong emphasized the necessity of government action to dispel online radicalization, noting, "This important step aims to safeguard the future, especially for our children against online extremism." These developments occur alongside Australia’s broader counter-terrorism strategy, focusing on national security protection and countering violent extremism.
The Australian government recently announced plans for the establishment of a national Holocaust education center, garnering positive feedback from the Jewish community. Committed to 6.4 million dollars for this initiative through cooperation with the Jewish community group, Australia seeks to educate on issues related to hate and extremism.
Overall, both the United States and Australia are taking decisive steps to confront online threats, demonstrating their commitment to national security and public safety amid growing extremist ideologies online. While the initiatives differ, the objective remains consistent: to counteract the influence and propagation of harmful ideologies via online platforms.