This exploratory study attempts to explain the phenomenon of young people’s tendency to be drawn into jihadist radicalization in Switzerland, at an individual as well as a social level.

It demonstrates how debates about marginalization and discriminatory social structures play a significant role in people being drawn toward violent Islamist positions. Salafism attrats young people with promises of identity and appreciation, appealing to their sense of justice and offering an alternative belief system and worldview.

The report includes a case study of a repatriate from Syria and an Internet study that identifies a recruiting pattern that uses heroic narratives. It also addresses the role of public institutions and Muslim organizations in Switzerland. The study ends with a range of prevention and intervention recommendations that are taken, among other things, from the experiences of prevention programs in other European countries.