1. Youth, Crime and Terrorism Louise Shelley, School of Public Policy, George Mason University October 13, 2007 Hacettepe University, Ankara

2. Where does recruitment occur? From all social groups Prisons and jails in Western Europe, US and elsewhere In poorer neighborhoods where there is desire for youth to earn money In high schools and universities among more elite populations

3. How does recruitment occur? Terrorists recruit among petty delinquents in school Recruit imprisoned delinquents through indoctrination by terrorists with whom they serve Youth gang members are hired by criminal- terrorists, i.e. Latin American gangs

4. How does recruitment occur cont. Computer networks—chatrooms and other online communities Family networks Orphaned or displaced youth in conflict regions or inner cities

5. Why is recruitment possible? Frustration of youth Desire or need for financial compensation Glamour of links with terrorists Proximity to criminal-terrorists

6. How do terrorists appeal to youth? Through family networks of sympathizers Find youth who are from dysfunctional families and provide them support In Islamic movements, explain to youth that death may bring them to paradise

7. How do terrorists appeal to youth? Find vulnerable youth in areas of prolonged conflict and civil war, i.e. in Iraq Play on their emotions to contribute to something significant

8. What kind of youth crime supports terrorism? Petty crime that supports terrorism Significant crimes that is not expected of youth—transport of drugs, money, weapons Logistical support—smuggling of people, moving false documents

9. What roles do youths perform for terrorist organizations? Can serve as suicide bombers, particularly in the Middle East Can serve as child soldiers, often compelled into this role in Africa Can serve as cross-border smugglers Can serve as couriers

10. How do terrorists view youth? Often seen as disposable people Seen as decoys or as distraction for law enforcement Often made to assume criminal responsibility because criminal penalties are less for youthful offenders