Safeguarding young people - the digital age & rise of online ideologies
The warning this month from Ken McCallum, head of MI5, on the increasing numbers of young people becoming involved in online extremism is deeply worrying.
According to McCallum, 13% of people investigated for involvement in UK terrorism by the security service are under 18, a trend which has increased threefold in the last three years.
According to a recent MI5 update, young people are being exploited by criminals and 'drawn into poisonous online extremism'. Whilst the direction of the security agency's counter terrorist work remains roughly 75% Islamist extremist and 25% extreme right-wing terrorism, the report highlights that 'extreme right wing terrorism in particular skews heavily towards young people'. Indeed recent convictions reflect this.
It has been ten years since I was interviewed and reported on the introduction of the Prevent Duty, and the part all practitioners can play in prevention. Today, there can be no doubt that safeguarding young people from extremist ideology is still a real risk, but what the MI5 report highlights for me is the need to understand shift changes both in type of risks and the mediums being used to manipulate young people.
Factors Contributing to Radicalisation
Whilst the internet has revolutionised communication and information dissemination, it has also provided a fertile ground for the spread of extremist ideologies. Young people, with their inherent curiosity and susceptibility to online influence, have become increasingly vulnerable to radicalisation and involvement in online terrorism. Contributing factors for susceptibility include:
Isolation and Loneliness
Many young people, especially those feeling marginalised or excluded from mainstream society, find solace in online communities where they can connect with others who share their views. These communities can become echo chambers, reinforcing extremist ideologies and fostering a sense of belonging;
Exposure to Extremist Content
Social media platforms and online forums are rife with extremist propaganda, which can be easily accessible to young people. Graphic videos, hateful rhetoric, and conspiracy theories can be particularly influential in shaping radical beliefs;
Personal Grievances and Identity Crises
Young people who are struggling with personal issues, such as identity crises or family problems, may be more susceptible to extremist ideologies that offer simple solutions or a sense of purpose;
Peer Pressure and Group Dynamics
The desire to fit in or be accepted by a group can lead young people to adopt extremist views, even if they do not fully believe in them.
Educating Young People About Online Extremism
Whilst there are calls for social media platforms and online forums to implement stronger measures to prevent the spread of extremist content and remove harmful content, education and awareness are powerful preventative resources.
Educating young people about online extremism is crucial to preventing their involvement in harmful activities and promoting critical thinking. So here are some effective strategies schools can implement:
Media Literacy
- Critical Thinking: Teach pupils to evaluate information critically, recognising bias, misinformation, and propaganda.
- Source Verification: Encourage pupils to verify information from multiple reputable sources before believing it.
- Online Footprint: Educate pupils about their digital footprint and the importance of responsible online behaviour.
Understanding Extremism
- Historical Context: Explore historical examples of extremism to provide a broader understanding of its origins and consequences.
- Psychological Factors: Discuss the psychological factors that can contribute to radicalisation, such as loneliness, isolation, and identity crises.
- The Appeal of Extremism: Examine the tactics used by extremist groups to attract and manipulate individuals, especially young people.
Online Safety
- Social Media Awareness: Teach pupils about the risks and benefits of social media platforms and how to use them safely.
- Cyberbullying Prevention: Discuss the dangers of cyberbullying and how to report and prevent it.
- Online Grooming: Educate pupils about the tactics used by online predators to groom children and young adults.
Open Dialogue and Support
- Safe Spaces: Create safe spaces where students can discuss sensitive topics without fear of judgment or ridicule.
- Counselling Services: Provide access to counselling services for pupils who may be struggling with personal issues or feeling isolated.
- Community Involvement: Encourage pupils to participate in community activities and build positive relationships with peers and adults.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation
- Stay Updated: Keep up-to-date with legislation and the latest trends in online extremism and adjust curriculum accordingly.
- Evaluate Effectiveness: Regularly assess the effectiveness of the curriculum and make necessary adjustments.
As the MI5 report shows, educating young people about the dangers of extremist ideologies and the importance of critical thinking, together with online safety, education must be a priority. By implementing the above strategies, schools can equip pupils with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the online world safely and responsibly, while also promoting critical thinking and resilience.
Governance and staff have a duty of care to help protect young people from the dangers of extremist ideologies and work towards a safer and more inclusive online environment.
SSS Learning Safeguarding Director
