Radicalisation through the Eyes of Young People in Bulgaria

Abstract

This research investigated the relationship between the phenomenon of radicalisation and the perception of young Bulgarians about their current socio-economic situation. The current models that have been used to investigate the processes of radicalisation were examined in order to justify the adopted Root Cause Model. The model was adjusted to the context of Bulgaria in order to investigate the object of this study. The investigation was premised on macro level as well as micro-social and micro-individual factors adopted from the Root Cause Model in order to capture the dynamics of the relationship between the phenomena of radicalisation and the perceptions of the selected group. For the research, a qualitative approach was adopted using semi-structured interviews. Ethnicity was also considered, allowing for a comparison of conceptions within and between the main ethnic groups of Bulgarian majority and Turk and Roma minorities. The research found that Bulgarian youth appeared discontented with their socio-economic situation, with particular frustrations around poor education access and quality, lack of trust in the state and poor social integration. Overall, the findings were that Bulgarian youth were not necessarily vulnerable to the onset of radicalisation despite their discontent. However, the results were more pronounced along ethnic lines, particularly in relation to the perceived disadvantages and frustrations of the Roma minority.