Three years after the terrorist attack in Vienna: Expert Nicolas Stockhammer analyzes how effectively the authorities are combating extremism. The tranquility is deceptive.
Paris, Berlin and Brussels. Then it also happened in Vienna. November 2 marks the third year since the terrorist attack took place. A few days before the anniversary, the security situation is tense. Terror expert Nicolas Stockhammer has investigated the terrorist attack in the new book “Deceptive Calm” (Amalthea Verlag). For the “Krone” he analyzes what consequences the Austrian authorities have drawn from the terrorist attack and where there are still gaps.
What conclusions were drawn?
The new DSN (State Security and Intelligence Directorate) was established relatively quickly after the terrorist attack. Moreover, the state security force has made massive inroads into the ‘Islamist scene’ and ‘broken up the networks’, says Stockhammer. A few “bad eggs have emerged”. The terror expert concludes: “We have improved quantitatively and qualitatively, but the threat situation has changed.”
How high is the risk?
Vienna and Graz have a pronounced jihadist scene. “We are the gateway to the Balkans,” says Stockhammer. On the other hand, Vienna is also the center of extremists as it is home to many international organizations. There are between 50 and 70 threats in the country. Another 200 people show an affinity with extremism that could become dangerous.
How are the perpetrators currently radicalizing themselves?
About 80 percent become radicalized on social networks. The latest trend is “influencer preachers.” They flirt with conspiracy stories. For example, that politics promotes anti-Muslim racism and the population is re-educated to hate Islam. The development of the Viennese murderer was “typical” of that of a European murderer. As a ‘lone perpetrator plus’ he had a network that supported his ideology, but he planned the attack alone. We are currently confronted with ‘casual terrorism’.
Where are the shortcomings?
A real disadvantage for Stockhammer is the fact that authorities are not allowed to monitor mobile phones for possible threats for data protection reasons. The Constitutional Court has annulled a corresponding law. “Here the right to data protection conflicts with the right to life.” In general, the expert misses more commitment from the judiciary in the implementation of anti-terrorist laws.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
