Youth Radicalization, Carceral Networks as Radical Ideological Spaces, and the Structural Limits of State-Sponsored Rehabilitation Models in West Africa

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 14, No. 6, June 2023 | pp. 46–54

DOI: 10.46882/2023/GJPCS/140601

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Youth Radicalization, Carceral Networks as Radical Ideological Spaces, and the Structural Limits of State-Sponsored Rehabilitation Models in West Africa

Authors: Purity W. Kamau¹, Kofi Kwakwa²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹School of Law, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya; ²Faculty of Law, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

Abstract:
This study investigates the structural dynamics of violent extremist recruitment within carceral institutions across West Africa, evaluating the long-term efficacy of state-sponsored rehabilitation and de-radicalization initiatives. Employing a comprehensive qualitative policy review alongside detailed behavioral case profiles of 82 former detainees, we analyze how high-security prison systems function as spaces for radical ideological transmission. The empirical evidence demonstrates that overcrowding, severe administrative isolation, and abusive disciplinary practices create an environment where vulnerable, non-violent offenders are rapidly integrated into sophisticated extremist networks. Quantitative indicators establish that states relying primarily on high-security carceral containment show a 55% higher recidivism rate among former inmates compared to states integrating community-based open rehabilitation pathways. The research highlights how current counter-radicalization frameworks fail because they focus heavily on theological re-education while ignoring the structural drivers of alienation: widespread economic exclusion and systemic judicial corruption. We conclude that sustainable security sector reform requires decoupling low-risk offenders from radical inmate populations and expanding post-release employment support structures.

Keywords: Youth Radicalization; Carceral Institutions; West Africa; De-Radicalization; Security Sector Reform; Recidivism

Manuscript Timeline: Received: July 28, 2021; Revised: October 12, 2021; Accepted: January 05, 2022; Published: June 15, 2023

Citation: Kamau, P. W., & Kwakwa, K. (2023). Youth Radicalization, Carceral Networks as Radical Ideological Spaces, and the Structural Limits of State-Sponsored Rehabilitation Models in West Africa. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 14(6), 46–54. DOI: 10.46882/2023/GJPCS/140601

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