Radicalisation

Radicalisation is defined within UK safeguarding frameworks as the process by which individuals come to support terrorism and extremist ideologies, and in some cases, participate in terrorist groups. Northern Ireland adopts this definition for safeguarding purposes, while recognising its own context for Northern Ireland Related Terrorism under separate strategic arrangements. This may involve adopting beliefs that promote violence, hatred, or intolerance, and can lead to involvement in extremist groups or activities. This also includes emerging extremist ideologies such as misogynistic extremism and incel-related radicalisation, which can pose significant risks to children and young people.

In a changing environment, where access to global information and communications is available online and via social media, the type of radicalisation has broadened to include exposure to wider and extremist ideology and non-ideology influences which can result in negative attitudes and behaviours leading to violence. Of increasing concern, is that exposure to this online environment means early detection of any threat and risk impact on a young person (or indeed the source of threat) may not be as visible or as quickly identifiable as in the offline world.

Radicalisation is not confined to any one faith, background, or demographic. There is no single profile of a child or young person who may be vulnerable to extremist influence, and the process can occur gradually over time or very rapidly, depending on the individual and their circumstances.

Children and young people may be groomed into extremist ideologies, including far-right extremism, Islamist extremism, or other forms, including Northern Ireland Related Terrorism. This grooming often involves exploitation, where trust is built and then manipulated, sometimes through emotional connection, promises of belonging, or exposure to harmful content.

Practitioners need to be mindful of the individual nature of the radicalisation process and the role of online platforms and peer influence.

Recognising Signs of Radicalisation in Children and Young People

Identifying radicalisation in children and young people can be challenging, as the process is often subtle and varies from person to person. However, there are several behavioural indicators that may suggest a child or young person is being influenced by extremist ideologies. These signs should always be considered in context and alongside other risk factors:

• Social withdrawal – avoiding family and friends or changing peer groups.
• Secretive behaviour – concealing online activity or being evasive about beliefs.
• Scripted or rehearsed speech – speaking in a way that sounds memorised or unwilling to engage in open discussion.
• Hostility towards others – showing increased intolerance, especially toward those with differing views.
• Heightened anger or frustration – displaying sudden or intense emotional reactions.
• Use of extremist language – using terms that promote exclusion, hatred, or violence.
• Support for violence – expressing admiration for extremist groups or justifying violent actions.
• Possession of extremist materials – holding literature, videos, or digital content that promotes extremist views.
• Sudden behavioural changes – alterations in appearance, routine, or interests.
• Justifying violence through grievances – framing personal or political grievances as reasons for violent action.

Practitioners should recognise that these behaviours may signal distress, manipulation, or exploitation rather than deliberate intent. Early intervention, open dialogue, and multi-agency support are key to safeguarding children and young people at risk.

Extremism

On 14 March 2024 the government announced a new definition of extremism that says:

“Extremism is the promotion or advancement of an ideology based on violence, hatred or intolerance, that aims to:

Negate or destroy the fundamental rights and freedoms of others; or

Undermine, overturn or replace the UK’s system of liberal parliamentary democracy and democratic rights; or

Intentionally create a permissive environment for others to achieve the results in (1) or (2).”

This updated definition of extremism will be used by government departments and officials alongside a set of engagement principles, to ensure Government is not inadvertently providing a platform, funding or legitimacy to groups or individuals who attempt to advance extremist ideologies.

Whilst the policy and legislation for such matters are reserved for the UK Government, partners and practitioners have a key interest in the consequences of actions that may impact on public safety in Northern Ireland. Currently, the scope of the definition and principles is UK ministerial central government departments only.

Terrorism

Terrorism is an action or threat designed to influence the Government or intimidate the public. Its purpose is to advance a political, religious or ideological cause. The current UK definition of terrorism is provided in the Terrorism Act 2006.

In the UK, terrorism is defined as a violent action that:

• Endangers a person’s life, other than that of the person committing the action
• Involves serious violence against a person
• Causes serious damage to property
• Creates a serious risk to the public’s health and safety
• Interferes with or seriously disrupts an electronic system.

Paramilitarism in Northern Ireland

The issues associated with CCE and paramilitarism in Northern Ireland are explored in the section on Perpetrators of Exploitation. Recent research commissioned by the Department of Justice and conducted by Dr Gillian Kane (Ulster University) reflects the connection between paramilitary-linked criminal exploitation and modern slavery in Northern Ireland. The study identifies significant barriers to recognising children and young people as victims of trafficking, including safety concerns, gaps in statutory duties, and definitions that fail to capture hyper-local exploitation. These findings reinforce the need for practitioners to consider coercion and control within paramilitary contexts and to utilise safeguarding and referral mechanisms, including the National Referral Mechanism, where indicators of trafficking are present.