This paper explores the role of gender in radicalization to Da'esh. It discusses possible factors in female radicalization, and how radicalization differs between men and women, and finds that the gender of the recruit affects the enabling factors, mechanisms and locations relating to radicalization. The article challenges assertions that the recruitment of young men and women to Da'esh follows identical patterns, as well as the narrative of women as innately peaceful, or as actors coerced into joining Da'esh, revealing the importance of female empowerment in the group’s appeal.
2017