"The role of gender in violent extremism"

This chapter explores the multifaceted role of gender within extremist ideologies and examines manifestations of masculinity, femininity, and misogyny in various extremist contexts. It shows how different scholarly approaches explain the ways in which gendered narratives shape recruitment, radicalization, and participation in extremist activities. Different explanations of male violence emphasizing the socio-cultural construction of masculinity within extremist milieus is discussed and the notion of the “manosphere” and its subcultures like incels is introduced thereby showing how online spaces foster misogynistic ideologies that can escalate into violence. Furthermore, the roles women play within extremist groups, from active participation in violence to providing crucial support functions are also highlighted. Finally, the implications of gender dynamics for prevention efforts are discussed Ultimately, the chapter advocates for a nuanced understanding of gender dynamics to inform more effective prevention strategies and policymaking in the fight against violent extremism.

Katrine Fangen is a professor of sociology in the Department of Sociology and Human Geography at the University of Oslo and serves as the thematic leader for ‘Gender and Extremism’ and ‘Ideology and Identity’ research areas at C-REX. She has authored numerous articles and books on the far-right, drawing from fieldwork conducted within the far-right extremist scene in the 1990s, as well as from qualitative interviews and digital data concerning the contemporary far right. Her work also covers topics such as nationalism and national identity, right-wing populism, migration, and qualitative research methodology.

Please reach out to Hazel Velasco Palacios hgv5008@psu.edu if you have any questions about the event or need accommodations.