Estonian Police: Signs of Radicalization Seen in Ever Younger Teens
The head of the radicalization prevention group at Estonia's Police and Border Guard Board Northern Prefecture says signs of radicalization are already visible among 12- and 13-year-olds. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Justice is seeking a provider of services for young people with extremist views.
Signs of radicalization in Estonia are appearing in increasingly younger people and can already be seen in children aged 12 and 13. This was said by Pärtel Preinvalts, head of the radicalization prevention group at the Northern Prefecture of the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board. He said a similar trend is visible in other Western countries, including the United States.
The age threshold is falling
Preinvalts said that previously the concern involved 15- and 16-year-olds, while now it concerns 12- and 13-year-olds or even younger children. Over the past decade, the number of violent crimes committed by juveniles has grown, while shoplifting and vandalism cases have declined. The share of juvenile crimes committed against another person rose from 27.5 percent in 2016 to 48.8 percent in 2022, and last year stood at 44.7 percent. "Although the overall numbers may be falling, the proportion of crimes that have a much greater impact on victims and the community is increasing," Preinvalts said.
Belonging and "patriotism"
He explained that young people often find a sense of belonging through shared activities that at first have no obvious link to radicalization. Many teenagers do not realize what kind of group they have joined until an adult explains it. A recurring motive, he said, is so-called patriotism, which quickly turns into hatred of minorities and a search for conflict. The process begins online and soon moves into public spaces, for example through distributing stickers and other propaganda materials.
Preinvalts noted that radical views are often part of a young person's development and that many grow out of them without posing a threat. The problem arises when violence is glorified or used. In his view, ideological influence has never been as accessible to young people, as content is often determined by algorithms. The state does not want to interfere with people's beliefs, but it must ensure the safety of all residents.
Ministry procurement
Estonia's Ministry of Justice is looking for a service provider to help young people with extremist views avoid repeat offenses and return to education or the labor market. A small-scale procurement has been announced with an estimated value of €40,000. The service is aimed at people aged 14 to 29 whose offenses are linked to extremist views. The counselor must have at least two years of experience working with young people and knowledge of how radicalization develops.
