Youth Radicalization, Prison Systems as Radicalization Incubators, and the Structural Limits of Modern Penal Rehabilitation Models in North Africa

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol 15, No. 6, June 2025 | pp. 46–54

DOI: 10.46882/2025/GJPCS/150601

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Youth Radicalization, Prison Systems as Radicalization Incubators, and the Structural Limits of Modern Penal Rehabilitation Models in North Africa

Authors: Driss Benali¹, Aigul N. Sadykova²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹Center for Middle Eastern and African Studies, Hassan II University, Casablanca, Morocco; ²Department of International Relations, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Almaty, Kazakhstan

Abstract:
This study investigates the structural dynamics of violent extremist recruitment within carceral institutions across North 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; North Africa; De-Radicalization; Security Sector Reform; Recidivism.

Manuscript Timeline: Received: April 15, 2023; Revised: July 05, 2023; Accepted: August 14, 2023; Published: June 15, 2025

Citation: Benali, D., & Sadykova, A. N. (2025). Youth Radicalization, Prison Systems as Radicalization Incubators, and the Structural Limits of Modern Penal Rehabilitation Models in North Africa. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 15(6), 46–54. DOI: 10.46882/2025/GJPCS/150601

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