Socioeconomic drivers of radicalization: A study of youth recruitment into Al-Shabaab in Somalia

Abstract

This article explores the effects of the socioeconomic determinants on youth radicalization and recruitment into Al-Shabaab in Somalia. While previous studies have examined poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, ideology, and violent extremism, these issues were studied separately. The effect of their interrelation within the specific socio-political and institutional setting of Somalia remains unexplored. The article explores the influence of economic, social and institutional vulnerabilities on youth recruitment into Al-Shabaab. The study considers the impact of poverty, youth unemployment, social marginalization, and organizational recruitment strategies on youth recruitment in Somalia using the Relative Deprivation theory supplemented with the theories of Social Identity theory, Frustration-Aggression theory, and Employment Exclusion theory. The findings of the study reveal four interrelated themes. First, poverty does not lead to radicalization per se but provides structural vulnerability under the conditions of perceived inequalities, poor governance, and neglect of institutions. Second, unemployment leads to blocked aspirations, social immobility, and loss of faith in the legitimacy of opportunities. Third, social marginalization makes people feel deprived of belonging and recognition, which makes other alternatives attractive to them. Fourth, Al-Shabaab exploits these existing grievances by offering or promising income, protection, social inclusion, identity and purpose.