Radicalization and Family Values. The Case of Muslim Youth among the Somali Community of Eastleigh, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

This paper investigates the role of families in the radicalization of the youth today. The global perspective based on literature review helps to address the influence of parents on their children and how radicalization can be overcome. The findings in Eastleigh, Nairobi add value to the conclusion that the radicalization process cannot be placed on one faith like Islam but people of all faiths, creed, races, groups, can be radicalized depending on their situation. The strong point presented by the push and pull factors can have a negative impact and radicalize local communities against foreigners. Discrimination can be used by leaders as a rallying call for resistance. Those in other parts of the world, sympathetic to suffering brethren can rush in to help, at times not knowing the details of the problem at hand. The paper calls for tolerance to all people and show restraint when one's space is infringed upon by the so called foreigners.