The study examined some of the core factors contributing to the radicalization of youth in Mombasa County, Kenya, proceeding from the premise that economic marginalization underlies the push and pull factors driving youth radicalization. Recently, the radicalization and recruitment of youth into violent extremist organizations (VEOs) such as Al Shabaab have increased in the Kenyan coastal areas, particularly in Kisauni, Mombasa County. A review of the literature indicates that economic marginalization underpins and intersects with various radicalization factors discussed by scholars. However, while countering violent extremism (CVE) measures and models have primarily focused on other factors; economic marginalization has received little attention as a critical driver of youth radicalization. The study adopted the Human Needs and Frustration-Aggression theories to explain the link between economic marginalization and youth radicalization, which is shaped by structural barriers to achieving socio-economic aspirations in Mombasa County. The paper provides background information in the introduction, a concise literature review, methodology, key findings, and discussion, followed by recommendations. Analyzing primary quantitative and qualitative data, the study found that, despite various factors contributing to radicalization, economic marginalization was a significant factor that made youth vulnerable to recruitment by VEOs. The study recommended enhancing youth economic empowerment through self-employment and skills development.

 

Key words: Counter radicalization, economic marginalization, extremist organizations, extremist violence, radicalization of youth.