Foreign Fighters and Radical Influencers: Radical Milieus in the Postwar Balkans

This book explores the relationship between the Bosnian War and the Kosovo War and the emergence of radical milieus in the Balkans. It traces the path of over 400 individuals who traveled to Syria or were involved in recruitment locally, arguing that radical influencers are likely to be more evident in postwar societies due to state and societal fragility. The book also suggests that radical milieus can spread to various locations, including countries hosting postwar diaspora communities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate relationship between the legacy of the Bosnian War and the Kosovo War and the emergence of Salafi influencers and foreign fighters in the Balkans. By examining the origins and dynamics of radical milieus, the author aims to understand if and how these wars influenced the consolidation of such groups and their recruitment of foreign fighters. Through a qualitative methodological approach, the book traces the path of over 400 individuals who either traveled to Syria or were involved in recruitment locally. It argues that the presence of radical influencers is likely to be more prominent in postwar societies due to the fragility of state and societal structures, which create opportunities for social actors to exert influence and hinder counter-extremism efforts.

Moreover, the book highlights that preceding conflicts resonate through society across different locations, and postwar radical milieus can emerge in various places, including countries hosting postwar diaspora communities. This study will be of immense interest to students of radicalization, terrorism, and political violence, Balkan politics, Middle Eastern politics, and International Relations (IR) in general. By exploring the complex interplay between historical events, social dynamics, and the emergence of radical ideologies, this book provides valuable insights into the ongoing challenges of countering extremism and promoting peace and stability in the region.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032227351