Gender and radicalisation in the phenomenon of islamism in the age of new media: A project report

Abstract Introduction: The rising number of returnees from IS-controlled territories in Syria and Iraq poses significant challenges for Europe, particularly regarding female returnees and their children. Methods: This study employed a multidimensional, mixed-methods approach, including literature reviews, an online survey, and interviews with experts to explore the psychological and social factors influencing the radicalisation of women and their reintegration difficulties. Results: Key findings indicate that group dynamics, especially psychological and social factors, family processes, stigmatisation, and pre-existing trauma are significant risk factors for radicalisation and obstacles to reintegration. Discussion: Providing care for female returnees and their children requires long-term, cross-state, low-threshold counselling and therapy services to address this group’s needs and challenges. These services are essential for facilitating their reintegration while preventing re-radicalisation. Therapeutic interventions should be used to reduce the potential transgenerational transmission of trauma. The stress and traumatic experiences that children of female returnees frequently endure, both in war zones and upon their return, should be identified and addressed. Anti-Muslim racism and the resulting stigmatisation of individuals based on their religious beliefs, as identified and confirmed by our surveys, remains a challenge for our society.