On March 10, 2010, the New America Foundation hosted Matthew Alexander to discuss effective interrogation techniques. In his talk, Alexander argued that coercive interrogation methods are ineffective at obtaining information and counterproductive to the war on terror.
In his experience, Alexander said, suspects treated with respect and consideration are much more likely to share information than those threatened or tortured. Alexander stressed that torture is not an “enhanced method of interrogation,” as it is frequently referred to. In fact, Alexander argued, torture is a largely ineffective enterprise, often failing to elicit information where law enforcement-style interrogation has succeeded. The torture of detainees is also highly detrimental to the long-term counterterrorism effort. After all, Alexander explained, torture has long been a major recruiting point for militants. Although coercive methods may prevent some immediate attacks, the backlash will include an increase in the number of militant fighters. As new recruits are the lifeblood of terrorist organizations, said Alexander, it is important that torture be avoided.
Alexander then outlined three ways to improve U.S. military interrogations. First, he stated, interrogation training must thoroughly educate interrogators on the customs and traditions of their future prisoners. These lessons should be taught by natives who can share the complex nuances of their culture. Second, greater resources must be allocated for interrogation. Often, interrogators attempting to provide incentives for their captive can only offer a meager pillow or a blanket. Finally, the US military must research alternative methods of cross-examination. Alexander reported that Indonesia currently uses a highly successful system that treats each suspect as an individual, rather than a group member. Prior to the interrogation, interrogators assess the prisoner’s dominant motives, level of radicalism, role in the network, and personal problems. Many militants leave Indonesian interrogations to become ex-militants and advocates against violence. This analytic and individualist approach, Alexander concluded, is something the United States military should quickly adopt.
--Kalie Pierce, Research Intern with the American Strategy Program
