This briefing underscores the pivotal role of masculine identity in the recruitment of young men into violent extremist groups, positing that it is often the need to fulfill their identities as men rather than the specific beliefs of these groups that attracts them. It advocates for a gender-inclusive approach in policies and analyses aimed at countering violent extremism, emphasizing the necessity to "men-stream" these efforts to discern the factors rendering men susceptible to recruitment by extremist organizations. Through an examination of the influence of masculinities on both push and pull factors, the briefing delineates three recommended strategies for 'men-streaming' CVE policies: drawing insights from existing initiatives targeting men to prevent sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), involving local stakeholders in program design and implementation, and tackling structural barriers that perpetuate vulnerability to extremist recruitment among men.
2017