Social network analysis to prevent radicalization
Recently, the problem of radicalization and violent extremism has increased in Kyrgyzstan.
Search for Common Ground is running a project called TaasirLink: “Citizen Narrative Campaign”. This project aims to create a network of social influencers which positively influence vulnerable young people from Kyrgyzstan to build communal resilience to radicalization and violent extremist recruitment.
"M-Vector" has implemented a unique study, the results of which formed the basis for further development of the project.
Target audience: population of Kyrgyzstan (young people) aged 14 to 36 years.
Main objectives of the research:
- Recognize intervention programs and services in relation to social media and social networks
- Identify networks of individuals, programs, and services that influence and interact with target audience
- Identify credible messengers (people influencing the formation of views and attitudes)
The research was conducted in two stages.
Component 1
- Desk review of the required literature and key project documents;
- Pre-quantitative research (qualitative research). 24 KIIs with local self-governance bodies and local NGOs, regional divisions of international NGOs and UN agencies;
- Quantitative survey with 1112 young respondents in target settlements.
(Saruu, Jeti-Oguz, Alla-Anarov, Nariman, Bek-Abad and Arslanbob villages)
Component 2
- 14 KIIs with influencers identified through quantitative survey;
- Content analysis of the social networks of influencers.
The research identified the most important influencers among celebrities, industry experts, leaders and content creators, micro-influencers in communities, and there were given strategic recommendations for the TaasirLink project development.
