What makes Salafism attractive?

The child and youth protection agency of the German federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia reports on a symposium which was held on 2nd June 2015 on the topic of “Salafism — recruitment strategies and prevention approaches.” At the symposium, EFD Programme Director Ahmad Mansour discussed the psychological aspects of Salafism and why it can be appealing to young people.

Ahmad stated that mainstream society can be a challenging and complex environment for young people, and that Salafist groups can be appealing in that they offer a world with simple answers and clear enemies, as well as the promise of security, happiness and a mission. He called for civil society to enagage with the needs of these young people instead of considering them ‘lost souls’ who cannot be saved.

This report is in German and can be read here (page 12).