The Process of Radicalization

 

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Many incidents have been happening in Kenya that are driven by extreme ideas and views, that are different from what people generally believe. Some of these incidents have been either political, religious or ideological, influencing people to support extremism.

A few examples include:

• The 1998 US embassy attack in Nairobi.
• The 2007 post election violence where different ideologies were spread leading to tribal clashes.
• The Shakahola massacre in 2013 where people were convinced to fast till death in order to meet Jesus in heaven.

All these incidents and more have led to an unpeaceful nation to an extent of destruction of property and death of many people. But a question I am asking myself is how can a normal human being be asked to fast to death and accept it? A person asked to kill and does it? It's a complex thing. Let's look at the whole process of radicalization and how people reach the extent of taking these decisions.

The Process of Radicalization.

Radicalization is a complex social process that takes place gradually. Due to some factors like social media, this process can sometimes be fast but because it is a process it always has an entry point. The process can be unique to some individuals but common characteristics can be identified.

The process is triggered by different factors including religion, politics, social and ideological as discussed in the previous article.

Stages and Behavioral changes in Radicalization process.

According to Action Counters Terrorism (actearly), The process of radicalization has 4 main stages including

• Pre-radicalization
• Self identification
• Indoctrination
• Terrorism 

These stages are also characterized by different behavioral changes in Ideological views, Social relations and Criminal activity.

Pre-radicalization

This typically refers to the stage before an individual fully embraces extremist ideologies. This stage happens when a person experiences or is exposed to different factors that makes them vulnerable. Some factors like personal grievances, social alienations and also exposure to ideologies can make somebody receptive to extremism. Example The word "uncircumcised" used during the 2007 post election violence made some communities feel attacked hence had to react which later resulted in a big conflict.

Self Identification 

This is the stage where an individual seeks a sense of belonging and purpose. Individuals may be influenced by social networks that provide a sense of community and shared beliefs. Some may be drawn to radical ideologies that align with their perceived identity, fostering a stronger connection to a particular group or cause.

This can be triggered by different factors including: Loss or not getting jobs, societal discrimination and many more.

Indoctrination

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This stage involves shaping beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors to align with a particular extremist worldview. Individuals are exposed to and systematically taught extremist ideologies. This process involves manipulation, persuasion and coercion where an individual is not allowed to question or critically analyze the set of beliefs impacted on them. At this stage, it is very difficult to even convince the victim against the set of beliefs given to them. For instance the Shakahola incident, victims dared to even escape to Tsavo forest and Galana Kulalu so as to escape being rescued. This is as reported by Dr Kithure Kindiki the Interior Cabinet Secretary that some victims refused to eat blaming it on the Indoctrination.

Terrorism

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Terrorism is often considered a later stage in radicalization. The stage comes after individuals gradually grow into acceptance of violence as a means to achieve ideological goals. At this stage, individuals actively engage in extremist activities, often involving violence or terrorism. They may move beyond ideological support to participating in or planning acts that align with their radical beliefs.

Conclusion

The process of radicalization can be propelled through different mediums including Social media. Understanding the complicated process of radicalization is important in addressing its root causes and developing effective preventive measures. By acknowledging the complex interplay of social, economic, and ideological factors, societies can strive to foster inclusivity, education, and open dialogue as potent tools against the allure of extremism. Join me in my next article as I will be talking about Online extremism and it has facilitated or fastened the process of radicalization.

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By Madaraka Katana