Opinion | Preventing Youth Radicalization

Families, educators, community leaders, and policymakers must unite to create a society where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered.

Radicalization among youth is a pressing concern in many parts of the country and Kashmir is no exception. With its unique socio-political landscape, addressing this challenge requires a nuanced understanding of the factors that make young minds vulnerable to extremist ideologies. As someone rooted in this land, I firmly believe that our solutions must be as indigenous as our challenges, blending local wisdom with broader strategies to safeguard the future of our youth. Radicalization does not happen in isolation; it is often the result of a combination of personal grievances, societal alienation, and the manipulative allure of extremist narratives. In Kashmir, decades of conflict, coupled with limited economic opportunities and a sense of disenfranchisement, have created fertile ground for radical ideologies to take root. Social media has further exacerbated the issue, providing a platform for propaganda that targets vulnerable young minds.
One of the most potent tools in countering radicalization is education. However, the education system in Kashmir needs a reorientation. Beyond academic excellence, it should focus on critical thinking, moral values, and conflict resolution. Curriculum reforms must include lessons on empathy, tolerance, and the value of diverse perspectives. Local teachers can play a pivotal role here by instilling a sense of pride in our rich cultural heritage, which has always celebrated pluralism. Educational institutions should also create safe spaces for dialogue, where students can express their thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. Suppressing their voices can make them more susceptible to radical narratives that promise validation and purpose. The community has always been the backbone of Kashmir’s social fabric. Reviving the traditional role of community elders and religious leaders can significantly help in de-radicalization efforts. These figures are not only respected but also possess the moral authority to counter extremist narratives effectively. Regular interfaith and intra-faith dialogues, led by these leaders, can foster understanding and discourage divisive ideologies.
Local NGOs and youth clubs should also be encouraged to organize workshops, debates, and cultural events that promote unity and social harmony. By engaging youth in constructive activities, we can channel their energies positively and keep them away from harmful influences. Unemployment and lack of opportunities are among the major drivers of frustration among Kashmiri youth. Economic empowerment can be a game-changer in preventing radicalization. The government and private sector must work together to create job opportunities, skill development programs, and entrepreneurship initiatives tailored to the local context. For instance, tourism—especially border tourism—and handicrafts can be revitalized to provide sustainable livelihoods. Special focus should be given to the agricultural and horticultural sectors, which form the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. A young person engaged in meaningful work is less likely to fall prey to extremist ideologies. Social media has emerged as a double-edged sword in the fight against radicalization. While it is often used to spread extremist content, it can also be a powerful tool for positive change. Local influencers, journalists, and content creators can play a critical role in spreading counter-narratives that emphasize peace, coexistence, and hope. The creation of engaging, locally relevant content—whether in the form of videos, blogs, or podcasts—can challenge extremist propaganda and offer youth alternative perspectives. Digital literacy programs should also be implemented to help young people critically analyze the information they consume online.
Mental health is an often-overlooked aspect of radicalization. Many youth in Kashmir grapple with trauma, loss, and a sense of hopelessness. Providing access to counseling services, peer support groups, and mental health awareness campaigns can help them cope with their struggles and reduce their vulnerability to extremist ideologies. School and college counselors, along with community health workers, should be trained to identify early signs of radicalization and provide timely intervention. The government must adopt a multi-pronged approach to address youth radicalization. Policies should focus on long-term development, rather than just security measures. Civil society organizations, on the other hand, must work alongside the government to implement grassroots-level programs. Transparency and accountability are key to ensuring that such collaborations bear fruit.Preventing youth radicalization in Kashmir is not just a task for the government or law enforcement—it is a collective responsibility. Families, educators, community leaders, and policymakers must come together to build a society where young people feel heard, valued, and empowered. By addressing the root causes of radicalization and offering positive alternatives, we can guide our youth away from paths of violence and towards a future of hope, peace, and prosperity. In doing so, we not only protect them but also lay the foundation for a stronger, more harmonious Kashmir.
Writer can be reached on : syedjahanzeeb2@gmail.com