Youth as a target for extremist recruitment

Violent extremist groups seek to ensure the continuity of their activities and are constantly recruiting new members and supporters for their ideologies. Extremist propaganda spreads especially online, and nearly all extremist movements use social media, video game platforms, and dark web forums to advance their agenda. Violent ideologies are particularly spread to a wider audience on social media, including young people.

This publication examines the factors that contribute to and protect against radicalization, and explains the recruitment channels and methods used by extremist groups. The publication is designed for professionals working with children and young people, but also for anyone interested in the subject.