The State Department has launched a new center staffed by public and private sector professionals who aim to counter disinformation from ISIS, al-Qaeda and other extremist groups through the use of computer-mediated tools.The Global Engagement Center will collaborate with government organizations to create thematic campaigns across social media as well as coordinate counterterrorism messaging efforts aimed at foreign audiences, the department said Friday.
Michael Lumpkin, assistant defense secretary for special operations and low-intensity conflict, will serve as director of the engagement facility.
The State Department also seeks to empower a network of positive messengers and offer seed funds to nongovernmental organizations and media companies that can help stop the spread of violent extremism content through the center.
The facility will use data science and analytics technology to design, implement and evaluate social media campaigns against the ISIS group and develop strategies for public sector agencies to address domestic extremist movements.
