Youth Radicalization

Abstract

Radicalization is undermining Somalia's peace, stability, and development prospects. Religious extremism has also become a major security concern for the region and for the world. This chapter evaluates causes, drivers, and contributing factors of radicalization in Somalia. It also assesses the strategies adopted to deal with Al-Shabaab as well as other feasible options to address the issue of radicalization. There are currently over 20,000 UN-mandated forces with the African Union Mission in Somalia forces in the country battling with Al-Shabaab, and US military forces are also engaged in aerial attacks and at times special forces raids. Despite such combined efforts, Al-Shabaab endures as a strong force, unleashes devastating terror acts, and is poised to remain potent unless effective strategies are adopted.