AIVD sees increase in threat of online radicalisation of minors
The AIVD sees that minors increasingly pose a terrorist threat, because of their jihadist or right-wing terrorist ideology. The internet plays a significant role in radicalising these youths.
On the internet they can come into contact with easily accessible jihadist and right-wing terrorist propaganda, which is not always recognisable as terrorist content. Exposure to this propaganda in combination with the development of their identity and possible psychosocial problems may make minors susceptible to radicalisation. A tailored approach is required to counter this threat. The tailored approach can vary from utilising social services and supervision, to juvenile (criminal) law system. This was stated in a letter which Minister Uitermark of the Interior and Kingdom Relations sent to the House of Representatives earlier this month.
The AIVD currently sees dozens of minors who pose a threat to the national security. In the publication "A web of hatred - The online hold of extremism and terrorism on minors" the AIVD describes the threat posed by minors between the ages of 12 to 17 who radicalise online. These minors consume, create, and spread terrorist propaganda and in many cases have online contact with jihadists or supporters of right-wing terrorism. Planning or carrying out an attack is often a subject of conversation. The AIVD concludes that in some cases there are actually preparations to carry out an attack.
Online dissemination via social media and gaming platforms
The dissemination of terrorist messages by minors often takes place via social media and gaming platforms such as Instagram, Discord, Roblox, Telegram, and TikTok. Sharing the content takes place in both public chat groups and channels as well as in closed chat groups and in online private conversations. In public chat groups and channels not all extremist and terrorist propaganda can immediately be recognised. This is because of the use of subtle references to the ideology. For example by using specific emoticons or words with a double meaning. Jihadists refer to ISIS with a black flag and within right-wing terrorist chat groups the word ‘kebab’ is used to refer to Muslims.
In closed chat groups and private conversations participants often share more explicit content. This may include images, videos, or texts which confirm and substantiate the extremist or terrorist world view. Or content which justifies and glorifies violence.
Jihadist and right-wing terrorist propaganda
Almost all jihadist content that is spread online comes from ISIS supporters. The underage supporters actively disseminate jihadist content and also talk about joining ISIS.
Right-wing terrorist content is based on several right-wing extremist movements, such as accelerationism. Accelerationists glorify terrorist violence in online groups with the goal of unleashing a race war. Antisemitism takes precedence within right-wing terrorist groups. These groups can also focus their attention on other minorities and/or government institutions.
Importance of tailored approach
A tailored approach is required to counter the terrorist threat that minors pose. A tailored approach often includes (a combination of) social services, supervision, and a criminal law framework.
Sometimes the terrorist threat a minor poses can be eliminated through counselling. This may help minors to break free from the jihadist or right-wing terrorist ideology. In other cases this approach is not effective enough. Then the involvement of e.g. the juvenile criminal law system may be required. Close cooperation between the AIVD, other security chain partners, the social domain, and the healthcare domain can provide this required tailored approach.
Do you have any concerns about a minor? Go to Someone I know is on the verge of becoming radicalised. Where can I find help or information? for an overview of the institutions that can help.