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Looking for a Fight: Why Youth Join al-Qaeda and How to Prevent It

Abstract : Determining who seeks al-Qaeda membership and the strength of al-Qaeda's appeal is crucial to defeat al-Qaeda and prevent future radicalization. This report uses interviews and personal histories of 2,032 "foreign fighters" to explore why young men seek violent extremism. The report dispels common misconceptions about radicalization and recruiting. It reviews al-Qaeda's unique ideology and the media activities that have made it a popular global brand. The report categorizes potential recruits as: revenge seekers looking for an outlet for frustrations, status seekers looking for recognition, identity seekers looking for belonging in a group, and thrill seekers looking for an adventure. It clarifies each group's motivations and explains how each views the world. It proposes a prevention and communications strategy targeting the specific mental framework and psychological needs of each type to create a new dialogue with Muslims that fosters positive relations and erodes the appeal of al-Qaeda. It includes proposals for specific programs to amplify existing moderate Muslim voices who support U.S. objectives and the establishment of a U.S. Strategic Communications Agency with a Cabinet-level Secretary, dedicated funding, and a comprehensive, whole-of-government, strategy to build U.S. message credibility with honest, transparent dialogue that closes the "say-do" gap in recent foreign policy.