Muslim Youth in the United Kingdom

Abstract

While the vast majority of young Muslims in the United Kingdom are not and will not become ‘radicalised’, a handful may for multifaceted and complex reasons. Using a multidisciplinary lens, this chapter explores the nuanced societal and background factors that have contributed to a sense of anger, revolt, and exclusion among some Muslim youth, and provides insight to inspire actionable solutions within communities. Specifically, the chapter provides suggestions for social work practitioners working with Muslim youth in the United Kingdom as the lead agency, supported by a multidisciplinary team (when possible) to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients. Additionally, this chapter explores the acculturation strategies, cultural identity, perceived discrimination and radicalisation of Muslim youth in the United Kingdom, in parallel with the rise of Islamophobia and politicisation of the Islamic identity. Following an overview of the United Kingdom government’s responses to radicalisation and violent extremism, the chapter examines the effects of counter-terrorism strategies on Muslim communities and assesses their overall effectiveness. The final section discusses the implications for social work practice and public health practitioners working with Muslim youth, based on the insights derived from the analysis, and provides a set of recommendations for social workers working with Muslim youth.