But several officials said that as a study group spoke with service members this year they found that many wanted clearer definitions of what was not allowed. What was wrong yesterday is still wrong today, said one senior defense official. ![]() Previous policies banned extremist activities but didn't go into such great detail, and also did not specify the two step process to determine someone accountable. The rules also specify that commanders must determine two things in order for someone to be held accountable: that the action was an extremist activity, as defined in the rules, and that the service member “actively participated” in that prohibited activity. The new policy lays out in detail the banned activities, which range from advocating terrorism or supporting the overthrow of the government to fundraising or rallying on behalf of an extremist group or “liking” or reposting extremist views on social media. And for the first time, it is far more specific about social media. Officials said the new policy doesn't largely change what is prohibited, but is more of an effort to make sure troops are clear on what they can and can't do, while still protecting their First Amendment free speech rights. ![]() Senior defense officials tell The Associated Press that fewer than 100 military members are known to have been involved in substantiated cases of extremist activity in the past year, but they warn that the number may grow given recent spikes in domestic violent extremism, particularly among veterans. Capitol, triggering a broad department review. The new guidelines come nearly a year after some current and former service members participated in the riot at the U.S. WASHINGTON (AP) - Warning that extremism in the ranks is increasing, Pentagon officials are issuing detailed new rules prohibiting service members from actively engaging in extremist activities.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |