Resisting Radicalisation?: Understanding Young People's Journeys through Radicalising Milieus

This landmark volume of extensive empirical research conducted across Europe explains how, and why, young people become engaged in radicalizing milieus but also resist radicalization into violent extremism. It offers a critical perspective on the concept of radicalization and views it from the perspective of social actors who engage in radicalizing milieus but for the most part have not crossed the threshold into violent extremism. The volume brings together contributions from a cross-European study of young people's engagement in 'extreme right and 'Islamist milieus, arguing that radicalization is best understood as a relational concept reflecting a social process rooted in relational inequalities but also shaped by interactional and situational dynamics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 324 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

This groundbreaking collection of extensive empirical research, spanning across Europe, delves into the intricate processes that lead young individuals to engage in radicalizing milieus, while also exploring the factors that prevent them from transitioning into violent extremism. Providing a critical lens on the concept of radicalization, this volume examines it from the perspective of social actors who participate in radicalizing environments but, for the most part, remain on the sidelines of violent extremism. By bringing together contributions from a cross-European study, including France, Germany, the Netherlands, Greece, Russia, Turkey, the UK, and beyond, this volume offers a comprehensive exploration of young people's involvement in 'extreme right' and 'Islamist' milieus.

The book argues that radicalization should be understood as a relational concept, reflecting a social process deeply rooted in relational inequalities, but also shaped by interplay between interactional and situational dynamics. These dynamics not only facilitate but also impede the process of radicalization, highlighting the complex interplay of factors that shape this phenomenon.

In the first chapter, the authors provide an overview of the study, highlighting its objectives, methodology, and key findings. They argue that the study contributes to a better understanding of the factors that contribute to young people's engagement in radicalizing milieus and the factors that prevent them from moving towards violent extremism.

The subsequent chapters delve into the various factors that contribute to radicalization, including social exclusion, economic inequality, political disillusionment, and the influence of extremist ideologies. The authors explore how these factors interact with each other and how they shape the attitudes and behaviors of young individuals. They also examine the role of social networks, peer pressure, and the media in promoting and perpetuating radicalization.

The book also highlights the importance of intervention and prevention strategies in addressing radicalization. The authors discuss the effectiveness of different approaches, such as education, community engagement, and counter-radicalization programs, in promoting social cohesion and preventing the spread of extremist ideologies.

Throughout the book, the authors draw on a wealth of empirical evidence from a range of countries and contexts, providing a rich and nuanced understanding of the complex processes that lead young individuals to engage in radicalization and the factors that prevent them from moving towards violent extremism.

In conclusion, this groundbreaking collection of research offers a critical perspective on the concept of radicalization, shedding light on the factors that contribute to young people's engagement in radicalizing milieus and the strategies that can be employed to prevent them from transitioning into violent extremism. It is a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, and researchers interested in understanding and addressing the challenges posed by radicalization in contemporary society.

ISBN-13: 9781805390121