The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently released a report that seeks to assess efforts to maximize preventing, detecting, and responding to potential domestic violent extremism threats.
“Every day, the more than 250,000 dedicated public servants at DHS work to ensure the safety and security of communities across our country,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said. “To ensure we are able to continue executing our critical mission with honor and integrity, we will not tolerate hateful acts or violent extremist activity within our Department. The findings of this internal review highlight key steps that our Department will continue to take with urgency to better prevent, detect and respond to potential internal threats related to domestic violent extremism and protect the integrity of our mission.”
The report stems from a comprehensive high-level internal review Mayorkas directed and highlights steps DHS should take to improve its ability to adequately identify and address related threats.
Report recommendations include establishing baseline policies and guidance; promoting employee awareness; and enhancing methods to identify and address violent extremist activity while continuing to protect privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.
The agency noted it is identifying potential gaps in existing resources, authorities, and capabilities, including efforts related to the initial and ongoing screening and vetting of personnel to detect potential domestic violent extremism-related activity.
DHS maintains domestic violent extremism serves as one of the nation’s most significant terrorism-related threats. The agency has prioritized combating all forms of terrorism and targeted violence.