Publication

This paper discusses why the Islamic State (IS) appeals to young Muslim women in the West despite the fact that these women are educated, well-integrated and don't come from impoverished backgrounds. The author argues that these women are drawn to join the IS due to perceptions that Sunni Islam is under attack, feelings of discrimination in the West, and the promise of adventure and empowerment. He suggests that in order to be effective, counter-messaging, counseling and de-radicalization programs aimed at diminishing IS influence on these women should come directly from their family members and Muslim community leaders rather than Western governments.