The Spread of Islamic State Propaganda on TikTok: A Case Study of the Dutch Arrests
Abstract
The recent arrests of 15 individuals in the Netherlands on suspicion of spreading Islamic State propaganda on TikTok highlights the growing concern of online radicalization and the role of social media platforms in disseminating extremist content. This paper examines the case study of the Dutch arrests, exploring the methods used by the suspects to spread propaganda, the response of the Dutch authorities, and the implications for social media regulation and counter-terrorism efforts. The paper also discusses the broader context of online radicalization and the challenges faced by governments and tech companies in preventing the spread of extremist content.
Introduction
The rise of social media has transformed the way extremist groups disseminate their ideologies and recruit new members. TikTok, a popular short-form video-sharing platform, has become a breeding ground for online radicalization, with many extremist groups using the platform to spread propaganda and recruit new members. The recent arrests of 15 individuals in the Netherlands on suspicion of spreading Islamic State propaganda on TikTok highlights the growing concern of online radicalization and the need for effective counter-measures.
The Case Study: Dutch Arrests
On February 10, 2026, the Dutch authorities arrested 15 individuals on suspicion of spreading Islamic State propaganda on TikTok. The arrests were triggered by a TikTok account that spread large amounts of IS propaganda with Dutch subtitles, encouraging people to join the group and glorifying becoming a martyr. The account had gained significant traction, with some posts receiving over 100,000 views. The suspects, aged 16 to 53, were detained in raids across the Netherlands, following the arrest of a main suspect last month.
The suspects, 13 of whom are Syrian and four of whom have Dutch nationality, were accused of using TikTok to disseminate extremist content and recruit new members for Islamic State. The investigation revealed that the suspects had used various tactics to spread propaganda, including creating and sharing videos, using hashtags, and engaging with other users to promote their ideology.
Response of the Dutch Authorities
The Dutch authorities responded swiftly to the discovery of the propaganda account, arresting the suspects and seizing their devices and other materials. The investigation was led by the Dutch Public Prosecution Service, which worked in collaboration with the National Police and the General Intelligence and Security Service (AIVD).
The response of the Dutch authorities highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and social media companies in preventing the spread of extremist content. The Dutch government has also taken steps to strengthen its counter-terrorism laws, including introducing new measures to prevent online radicalization and to disrupt the spread of extremist content.
Implications for Social Media Regulation and Counter-Terrorism Efforts
The Dutch arrests highlight the need for social media companies to take greater responsibility for preventing the spread of extremist content on their platforms. TikTok, which is owned by China’s Bytedance, has faced criticism for its handling of extremist content, with many arguing that the company has not done enough to prevent the spread of propaganda.
The case study also highlights the challenges faced by governments and tech companies in balancing the need to prevent online radicalization with the need to protect freedom of speech and online expression. The Dutch government has introduced new measures to regulate social media companies, including requiring them to remove extremist content within 24 hours of notification.
Conclusion
The spread of Islamic State propaganda on TikTok is a growing concern that requires a coordinated response from governments, tech companies, and civil society. The Dutch arrests highlight the need for social media companies to take greater responsibility for preventing the spread of extremist content and for governments to strengthen their counter-terrorism laws and regulations.
The case study also highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and social media companies in preventing the spread of extremist content. As social media continues to play a significant role in shaping online discourse, it is essential that we develop effective strategies to prevent online radicalization and to promote counter-narratives that challenge extremist ideologies.
Recommendations
Social media companies should take greater responsibility for preventing the spread of extremist content on their platforms, including using AI-powered tools to detect and remove propaganda.
Governments should strengthen their counter-terrorism laws and regulations, including introducing new measures to prevent online radicalization and to disrupt the spread of extremist content.
Law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and social media companies should work together to prevent the spread of extremist content and to promote counter-narratives that challenge extremist ideologies.
Civil society organizations should play a key role in promoting counter-narratives and in challenging extremist ideologies, including through education and outreach programs.
By working together, we can prevent the spread of extremist content and promote a safer and more secure online environment.