Young people who travel to conflict zones in Syria have very diverse social profiles. Also the reasons for travelling to conflict zones vary. A study published today shows that social exclusion is not necessarily the most important reason for travelling to conflict zones. The research was carried out by the Centre for Research on Ethnic Relations and Nationalism (CEREN) at the Swedish School of Social Science, University of Helsinki, as part of the implementation of the Government’s 2015 plan for analysis, assessment and research.
The study is based on an extensive dataset of interviews, observations and online sources, and its aim was to find out why and how ISIL and other groups active in conflict zones in Syria and Iraq have managed to persuade young Finnish Muslims to join them. The dataset is based on interviews and social media activity of persons linked with mobility towards conflict zones.
A key finding in the study is that in Finland radicalisation should not be seen merely as a conversion to an ideology but also as a process where young people seek answers to their questions and construct and redefine their religious beliefs.
The people who were studied identify themselves strongly with Muslims suffering in conflict zones. While they share the dream of Muslim global unity, they are also aware of discord among multivocal Muslim communities.
The study participants included relatives and friends of those who travelled to conflict zones in 2012–2015 as well as Finnish supporters of jihadist groups, people investigated or arrested for terrorism offences, and people who work with youth and social exclusion issues.
The interviews dealt with the history of fourteen individuals: thirteen of them had joined ISIL and one had travelled to Syria before ISIL arrived there. At least four of these individuals have died. The research data tells about the lives of nearly one in five individuals who have left Finland to join the conflict in Syria.
Since 2012 the Finnish National Security Service has identified around 70 individuals who have travelled from Finland to conflict zones in Syria.
Report (in Finnish)
Further information about the Government’s analysis, assessment and research at tietokayttoon.fi.
Inquiries: Marko Juntunen, Centre for Research on Ethnic Relations and Nationalism (CEREN) at the Swedish School of Social Science, University of Helsinki, tel. +358 50 318 6103, marko.juntunen(at)helsinki.fi
