Experts warn of new generation of homegrown extremists
Experts are warning Australians of a new generation of homegrown terrorists that is more radical and more committed.
The youths are said to be inspired by some of the country's worst extremists, and are less likely to question orders.
Educator Silma Ihram said the education system effecting teenagers has changed.
"Our education system in the last 20 years has moved away from responsibility for society towards responsibility for yourself,” she told 7 News.
Hardline radicals like Abdul Benbrika, the leader of the Operation Pendennis terror cell, and IS recruits Mohamed Elomar and Khlaed Sharrouf have inspired Generation Z extremists including Parramatta shooter Farhad Jabar and Melbourne teen Numan Haider.
Roger Henning from Homeland Security Asia Pacific said younger extremists are more likely to give their lives to a cause.
"Their self-worth is so low they feel it is better to end it and try for martyrdom,” he said.
Of all the influences that marginalise young people, religion is often linked with radicalisation.
But experts say the radicalisation of our young people has less to do with religion, and more to do with hope - more specifically the loss of hope; leading to isolation and desperation.
"You'll see kids with hollow eyes, because they're defeated,” Mr Henning said.
Programs engaging police and Muslim communities, like the Aarhus model in Denmark, may be the solution.
"There's too much trauma that's being felt in the community, so there's no trust,” Ms Ihram said.
So far, the federal government has allocated only $2m out of $14m for programs to counter violent extremism.
News break – March 25
