Youth radicalization and violent extremism represent pressing global challenges with profound social, political, and security implications. Understanding the drivers of extremism, particularly among young people, is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat this phenomenon. Radicalization does not occur in isolation; it is the result of a confluence of factors that exploit vulnerabilities and amplify grievances.
The rise of youth extremism itself cannot be attributed to a straightforward cause-and-effect relationship. However, certain key factors can be identified that may increase young people’s vulnerability to radical narratives or motivate their involvement in extremist structures and activities. Below, we explore some of the key drivers of extremism in youth, examining both individual and societal factors.
1. Identity Crisis and Psychological Vulnerabilities
The nexus of radicalism, extremism, and youth often lies within the transitional stage of development into adulthood, especially when these challenges are intertwined with unresolved issues related to identity formation. The search for identity and belonging is an intrinsic part of adolescence and early adulthood and occurs among youth everywhere. Many young individuals experience an identity crisis as they navigate questions about their role in society, their cultural or religious identity, and their personal values.
Identity crises inspired by alienation, racism, dislocation, globalization, changing value systems, anomie and a host of other issues produce a heightened state of vulnerability and might compel individuals to seek solace in beguiling narratives that offer a safe and welcoming community of like-minded “outcast” individuals. Extremist ideologies often exploit this uncertainty and vulnerability, offering a clear, albeit distorted, sense of identity and belonging.
This vulnerability can be further exacerbated by the very avenues designed to broaden horizons. While expanding social networks and educational opportunities offer valuable experiences, they can also inadvertently expose young people to radicalizing ideologies during their formative years, potentially influencing and shaping their worldview and contributing to the development of extremist beliefs. Psychological factors also can further exacerbate susceptibility to radicalization. Extremist recruiters are adept at identifying and exploiting these vulnerabilities, using empathy and shared grievances to establish trust.
Online platforms, in particular, provide a space for young people to connect with like-minded individuals, reinforcing their beliefs and deepening their commitment to extremist ideologies. These platforms, while offering connection and information, can also become echo chambers where extremist narratives are amplified and unchallenged, further solidifying a distorted sense of identity and belonging for those already seeking it.
2. Political Disenfranchisement and Disillusionment
A growing sense of political disenfranchisement and disillusionment with established political systems and institutions plays a key role in understanding young people’s alienation from mainstream politics and civic engagement, creating a fertile ground for extremist ideologies. Perceived injustices, political marginalization, and systemic discrimination are also significant drivers of youth extremism.
In regions where young people feel excluded from political processes or oppressed by authoritarian regimes, extremist ideologies can serve as a vehicle for resistance. Movements that claim to fight for social justice or challenge perceived Western hegemony often resonate with disillusioned youth.
Moreover, the erosion of trust in governmental institutions and the lack of accountability in leadership contribute to a sense of disenfranchisement. When legitimate channels for political expression or grievance redress are unavailable, consequently, a gravitation towards radicalism or extremism.
It might be interpreted as one of the ways in which young people seek to air their frustrations and grievances and to attach themselves to structures that ostensibly allow them to feel that they are being empowered socially and politically. Extremist groups often exploit this cycle by framing their agendas as solutions to these grievances, portraying themselves as defenders of justice and freedom.
3. Socio-Economic Inequality
Socioeconomic pressures significantly contribute to a young person’s vulnerability to radicalism and extremism. Persistently high rates of global youth unemployment (above 10 percent for the past three decades) and broader socioeconomic inequalities have long fueled youth grievances. Young people today face dauntingly steep challenges, including limited prospects for employment, adequate housing, and upward social mobility.
In some areas, poverty, low educational attainment, and disproportionately high youth crime rates have become endemic. These combined challenges, along with experiences of prejudice and societal marginalization naturally breeds frustration, resentment, and a sense of injustice, making them more susceptible to extremist narratives that promise empowerment, financial support, and a sense of purpose.
War and conflict also have a tremendous impact on negative youth engagement. Young people in conflict zones, particularly those in “failing States” (which often result from prolonged conflict), are likely to gravitate towards violence or violent actors because such contexts ironically offer a semblance of security and a means to meet basic survival needs. Consequently, many young people join extremist groups not necessarily due to ideological commitment or religious appeal, but simply out of financial necessity and the need to survive.
This exploitation of economic vulnerabilities is common in conflict-ridden regions, where extremist groups offer material incentives such as stipends, housing, or food to recruit young individuals. The allure of financial stability, coupled with a lack of viable alternatives, becomes a powerful motivator for disenfranchised youth to join extremist movements.
4. Ideological and Religious Manipulation
Extremist groups often manipulate religious or ideological doctrines to justify violence and attract young recruits. While religion itself is not inherently a driver of extremism, its misinterpretation and politicization can be potent tools for radicalization. Such groups may exploit religious texts and teachings to frame their actions as divinely sanctioned, appealing to young individuals seeking spiritual purpose or validation.
Similarly, ideological movements that promote nationalism, ethnocentrism, or anti-globalization rhetoric can also attract youth. These ideologies often rely on simplistic narratives that divide the world into “us” versus “them,” fostering hatred and intolerance. Young people, particularly those with limited exposure to diverse viewpoints, may find these narratives compelling and align themselves with extremist causes.
5. The Role of Social Networks and Peer Influence
Radicalization is rarely an isolated journey. Social networks and peer groups play a pivotal role in shaping young people’s beliefs and behaviors. Friends, family members, or community leaders who sympathize with extremist ideologies can exert significant influence, normalizing radical views and encouraging participation in extremist activities.
The internet and social media have significantly amplified the reach and impact of extremist ideologies, further exacerbating the influence of social networks. Online platforms serve as powerful tools for extremist recruitment, propaganda dissemination, and community-building. Young people, often heavy users of social media, are particularly vulnerable to this influence.
Algorithms that promote echo chambers and filter bubbles compound the problem, exposing young users to a steady stream of extremist content and isolating them from alternative perspectives. The anonymity and accessibility of these online platforms further facilitate engagement with extremist content and connection with like-minded individuals.
Conclusion
Youth radicalization and violent extremism stem from a complex interplay of individual vulnerabilities and systemic issues encompassing socioeconomic, psychological, political, and ideological dimensions. While the specific pathways to radicalization vary, common themes of vulnerability, exclusion, and grievance emerge across contexts. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted and holistic approach that tackles root causes, promotes inclusion, and empowers young people as agents of positive change. Recognizing identity crises, psychological vulnerabilities, and socio-economic pressures as key drivers is essential for crafting preventive strategies.
Furthermore, combating the misuse of ideological and religious narratives while countering the influence of peer networks and online platforms is critical. This holistic strategy must include collaborative efforts between governments, civil society, and local communities to create inclusive environments where youth can thrive.
By investing in education, economic opportunities, and community-building, societies can foster resilience, empowerment, and constructive avenues for engagement, disrupting the pathways to radicalization and building a society where young people are agents of positive change rather than targets for exploitation by extremist ideologies. The fight against youth radicalization is not only a security imperative but also a moral responsibility to safeguard the future of the next generation.
References:
- Awan, Akil. (2016). ‘Negative Youth Political Engagement: Participation in Radicalism and Extremism’ in United Nations Annual World Youth Report, New York: United Nations (2016).
- Davydov, D.G. “The Causes of Youth Extremism and Ways to Prevent It in the Educational Environment.” Russian Education & Society 57, no. 3 (March 4, 2015): 146–62. https://doi.org/10.1080/10609393.2015.1018745.
SEAN-CSO provides a platform for civil society organisations in Southeast Asia to network and share resources. Through this network, members can support each other, share knowledge, and coordinate efforts to address the region’s social challenges. In doing so, SEAN-CSO contributes to strengthening the voice of civil society at both regional and international levels.