Rising Threat of Youth Radicalization

The constitutional protection agency in Baden-Württemberg is currently monitoring 90 cases of radicalized youth, including Islamists under 18. The Middle East conflict, particularly after the Hamas attack in October 2023, has intensified this trend. Benno Köpfer highlights instances of extremist activities among these youths, who are exposed to bomb-making guides and execution videos online. They piece together a 'Lego-Islam' using ideologies from social media, sometimes overlapping with right-wing extremism. Families and teachers are urged to notice signs of radicalization early.

The challenge for security authorities is assessing the real threat of violence from these individuals. Radicalization often occurs online, and some youths plan attacks or travel to jihadist regions. A lack of integration and psychological support, particularly for refugees, exacerbates the issue. Current resources like psychosocial centers are insufficient, with inadequate funding and limited availability, making early intervention crucial for preventing further radicalization.