Extremism and Online Radicalisation

Extremism – the holding of extreme political or religious views
Online radicalisation – internet platforms exposing individuals to adopt extremist ideologies, potentially leading to violence or terrorism.

A person who holds extreme political or religious views, especially someone who advocates illegal, violent, or other extreme action is called an extremist.

Social media, online forums and the internet in general has made it much easier for anyone to find and share information about points of view, which are very extreme and glorify violence as a way of achieving particular ideological goals.

 Ideology – a system of ideas and ideals

We live in an society where you have ‘freedom of expression’.

This is the democratic right to make up your own mind as an individual, and have your own beliefs and ideas.

However, when the extreme beliefs and ideas of certain social and political groups threaten the safety and security of the rest of society that’s when ideology can lead to terrorism, which is why we all need to respond by challenging those groups.

Terrorism – the use of violence and intimidation in the pursuit of political aims

Examples of Radicalisation

This could include:

• Accessing extremist content online or downloading propaganda material. 
• Justifying the use of violence to solve societal issues. 
• Altering one’s style of dress or appearance to accord with an extremist group. 
• Spending increasing amounts of time talking to people with extreme views (this includes online and offline communication). 
• Using certain symbols associated with terrorist organizations. 

Watch the video below – Sisters’ thoughts on Joining ISIS, watch Brothers’ thoughts below.

If you are being pressured to change your opinions or beliefs by an individual or group then ask yourself – “Am I being radicalised?”

What is ‘Grooming’?

Grooming and radicalization: Extremists can use the internet and social media to groom and radicalize individuals, often by targeting those who are feeling isolated, lonely, or vulnerable. 

This short film created in Ireland shows how a young person can become be groomed and exploited online.

This film shows how perpetrators may use social media to groom and exploit young people,

What can I do?

Report it – if you see any content on line which promotes violence and extremism, go to the ‘See It Report It’ website to get quick access to the reporting pages for most social media sites. – www.gov.uk/report-terrorism

“Talk to someone“

If you’re confused about some of the messages that you’ve seen on the internet or social media.

Perhaps you are worried about the behaviour of a friend who is spending a lot of time watching extremist videos and being involved with social media sites where people show support for extreme violence or terrorism.

You can approach your family and other friends, a trusted community or faith leader, or a teacher at school, college or university for advice.

If you have concerns about anyone, please call Customer First on 0808 800 4005. 

Other places you can go for help:

• NSPCC Helpline 0808 800 5000, email: [email protected] or completing our report abuse online form. Their helpline is available 10am–4pm Monday to Friday. You don’t have to say who you are.
• ChildLine – On their page they have access to support. You can call their helpline: 0800 1111

Do you need emotional wellbeing support?

If you are worried about how you are feeling, and you don’t feel in control, or if you are afraid you might do something harmful, please seek urgent mental health support. Call 111 and press the mental health option, or take a look at our Mind section to find wellbeing support and advice.

Further information

Think4peace on Twitter – is about empowering young people aged 14 – 19 to advocate for and contribute to a more peaceful society.

YouTube videos by Inspire, a charity who are working to counter extremism and gender inequality:

Are you a parent concerned about your child?

Educate Against Hate A website that gives parents, teachers and school leaders practical advice on protecting children from extremism and radicalisation. http://educateagainsthate.com/

Need to talk to someone? You can approach:

• A trusted community or faith leader.
• Your child’s school, college or university – they will have welfare officers or child designated safeguarding leads who are trained to help.
• Practitioners who work in children and young people’s services for Suffolk County Council.

If you have serious concerns about your child you should contact https://suffolksp.org.uk/ or call Customer First on 0808 800 4005. They will refer you to a trained expert who can help you gain access to support and advice