Misogyny is fastest pathway to extremism among young Australians, experts warn
Australian researchers told parliament misogynistic attitudes are the strongest sign of violent extremism, with recruitment speeding up on gaming and chat apps.
A parliamentary committee heard this week that radicalisation in Australia is happening faster and at younger ages. Radicalisation is less tied to a single ideology than before.
Research by University of Melbourne lecturer Sara Meger found attitudes accepting violence against women are the strongest sign of violent extremism support. Such attitudes matter more than ideology, religion, or time online.
Misogynistic views have shot up sharply. In 2019, about 4 per cent of men aged 18-34 thought women didn't deserve equal rights.
By 2024, that figure rose to about 12 per cent. Young people are recruited on gaming platforms like Discord, Telegram, 4Chan and 8Chan, which are outside social media age rules.
Experts suggested treating children drawn into extremism as victims of manipulation rather than terrorists. This allows for earlier help.
Why it mattersUnderstanding the link from misogyny to extremism helps authorities step in early and shows which online spaces need rules to protect young people.
AustraliaAustralian children are being radicalised faster through platforms the eSafety Commissioner cannot reach. Addressing misogyny online is now identified as a key counter-extremism strategy for Australian authorities.
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