Genderising radicalisation: forms and pathways of radicalisation from a perspective of gender

This chapter explores the intersection of gender and radicalisation, analysing how gender dynamics influence pathways into extremism. While radicalisation studies have traditionally focused on male-dominated narratives, emerging research highlights the active roles of women in extremist movements, both in jihadist and far-right contexts. A particular focus is given to the role of the internet and social media in shaping gendered radicalisation, offering a digital space where extremist ideologies are reinforced and propagated, manipulating gendered grievances and identity crises. This research draws on findings from the EU-funded PARTICIPATION project, incorporating qualitative data from focus groups with young people across six European countries: Belgium, Greece, Italy, Poland, Romania and the United Kingdom. Gender stands not merely as a secondary factor but as a crucial analytical lens to understand radicalisation processes. It emerges how extremist groups exploit gender roles to recruit and mobilise individuals. Women are often portrayed as passive victims or supportive figures, yet evidence suggests they also engage in recruitment, propaganda and ideological reinforcement. Similarly, masculinity is constructed within extremist narratives, reinforcing notions of dominance, protection and perceived threats to traditional gender roles. By applying an intersectional gender perspective, this paper contributes to a more nuanced understanding of radicalisation, challenging binary assumptions and advocating for a more inclusive counter-extremism approach.