Youth Radicalization, Cross-Border Refugee Settlements, and the Structural Limits of Modern De-Radicalization Models in East Africa

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 12, No. 6, June 2021 | pp. 46–54

DOI: 10.46882/2021/GJPCS/120601

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Youth Radicalization, Cross-Border Refugee Settlements, and the Structural Limits of Modern De-Radicalization Models in East Africa

Authors: Fatuma Hussein¹, John L. Deng²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Department of Sociology and Social Work, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya; ²Institute for Peace, Development and Security Studies, University of Juba, Juba, South Sudan

Abstract:
This study investigates the structural dynamics of violent extremist recruitment within protracted cross-border refugee camps in East Africa, evaluating the long-term efficacy of international rehabilitation and counter-radicalization initiatives. Employing a qualitative policy review paired with detailed behavioral case assessments of 74 young residents, we analyze how marginalized border camp environments function as spaces for radical ideological transmission. The empirical evidence demonstrates that overcrowding, severe restrictions on refugee employment, and abusive state policing practices create an environment where vulnerable, non-violent youths are easily integrated into extremist networks. Quantitative indicators establish that camp zones relying primarily on high-security police surveillance show a 55% higher re-recruitment rate among young returnees compared to settlements integrating community-led vocational projects. 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 statelessness. We conclude that sustainable security sector reform requires expanding legal employment freedoms for displaced populations.

Keywords: Youth Radicalization; Refugee Settlements; East Africa; De-Radicalization; Security Sector Reform; Economic Exclusion

Manuscript Timeline: Received: March 02, 2020; Revised: June 10, 2020; Accepted: August 14, 2020; Published: June 15, 2021

Citation: Hussein, F., & Deng, J. L. (2021). Youth Radicalization, Cross-Border Refugee Settlements, and the Structural Limits of Modern De-Radicalization Models in East Africa. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 12(6), 46–54. DOI: 10.46882/2021/GJPCS/120601

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