Concerns over the influence of extremist ideologies on young people have grown in recent years, with researchers and practitioners pointing to a mix of social, psychological and digital factors that shape vulnerability.

Interviews with counsellors, educators and former at-risk individuals suggest that exposure often begins in subtle ways, long before any overt signs of radicalisation emerge.A youth counsellor working with vulnerable adolescents in northern India, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject, said that feelings of isolation frequently act as an entry point.

“Most of the young people I meet are not looking for conflict,” the counsellor said. “They are looking for identity, purpose and recognition. Extremist narratives often package these in a very appealing way.”According to the counsellor, online platforms play a significant role in this early stage.

Content is often framed in simplified, emotionally charged language that resonates with personal grievances. “It doesn’t present itself as extremism at first,” the counsellor said. “It presents itself as truth, justice, or even empowerment.”

Educators and digital literacy experts say algorithm-driven platforms can amplify exposure by repeatedly surfacing similar content. A media studies researcher at a public university in Delhi noted that recommendation systems tend to reinforce engagement patterns.

“If a young person interacts with polarising or identity-driven content, the system feeds them more of it,” the researcher said. “Over time, this can create an echo chamber effect.”The researcher emphasised that this process is not limited to any one ideology or region. “The mechanism is structural rather than ideological,” they said.

“Different groups may use different narratives, but the underlying method of influence is remarkably similar.”Students interviewed for this article described encountering such content during routine social media use. One university student said that initially neutral discussions gradually shifted toward more rigid viewpoints. “At first it felt like learning something new,” the student said. “But over time, it became more about ‘us versus them’.”

Former participants in intervention programmes described how emotional factors often intersect with exposure to extremist messaging. A 22-year-old participant in a community outreach initiative said that during a period of personal uncertainty, online communities provided a sense of belonging.

“It felt like people understood me,” he said. “They had clear answers when everything else felt confusing.”He added that the shift toward more extreme viewpoints was gradual. “You don’t realise when your thinking starts changing,” he said. “It happens step by step.”Intervention specialists say that early engagement is critical.

A programme coordinator working with youth groups said that family members, teachers and peers often notice behavioural changes before individuals recognise them themselves. These may include withdrawal from social circles, increased rigidity in opinions, or heightened emotional responses to specific issues.

“The challenge is not to confront aggressively, but to create space for dialogue,” the coordinator said. “Young people respond better when they feel heard rather than judged.”

Experts consistently emphasise the importance of education and open communication in building resilience against extremist influence. Digital literacy programmes, which teach young people to critically evaluate online information, are increasingly seen as essential tools.

A school principal in Srinagar said that structured discussions in classrooms have helped students navigate sensitive topics. “We encourage questions rather than shutting them down,” the principal said. “When students feel safe to express doubts, they are less likely to seek answers in unverified spaces.”Community initiatives also play a role.

Local organisations working with youth have introduced mentorship programmes and extracurricular activities aimed at fostering a sense of inclusion. According to organisers, providing constructive outlets for energy and ambition can reduce susceptibility to harmful narratives.Mental health professionals highlight the need to address underlying emotional factors.

“Extremist messaging often exploits feelings of anger, injustice or alienation,” said a clinical psychologist based in Mumbai. “If those feelings are acknowledged and managed in healthy ways, the appeal of such narratives diminishes.”At the policy level, governments and institutions have focused on balancing security measures with preventive approaches.

Analysts note that enforcement alone is insufficient without parallel investment in education, employment opportunities and community engagement.The accounts gathered in these interviews indicate that while the pathways into extremism are complex, they are not inevitable.

Practitioners underline that timely intervention, supportive environments and access to credible information can significantly alter outcomes for young people navigating identity and belonging in an increasingly digital world.

The event brings together artisans, visitors, and cultural enthusiasts in an immersive experience that highlights the authenticity of Jazan’s traditional life, culture, heritage, crafts, artisans, craftsmanship, tradition, creativity, Saudi culture, cultural tourism, community engagement, local identity, cultural revival, cultural pride.

At the heart of the market is an interactive heritage pavilion that showcases traditional lifestyles, folk customs, and community practices that have been passed down through generations.

Visitors can explore displays featuring local games, traditional clothing, women’s adornments, and culinary delights that reflect the charm and warmth of the Jazan community, folk culture, traditions, culinary heritage, local art, cultural experiences, historical preservation, community heritage, cultural diversity, traditional lifestyle, tourism.

The initiative is organized by the Alrowad Youth Association and the Cultural House as part of the Year of Handicrafts, a national effort to promote and preserve Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural legacy.

The event beautifully combines education and entertainment through interactive storytelling and live demonstrations that connect younger generations to their cultural roots, youth engagement, cultural education, handicrafts, heritage conservation, national culture, youth empowerment, education through art, storytelling, heritage awareness, creative expression.

By reviving traditional crafts and showcasing the skill of local artisans, the market serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural continuity.

Visitors have the opportunity to participate in live workshops, learn from expert artisans, and appreciate the craftsmanship that defines the region’s creative spirit, artisan workshops, handmade crafts, traditional art, skill development, artistic heritage, local economy, craft promotion, creativity, empowerment, experiential learning.

The cultural market also contributes significantly to Jazan’s economy by providing artisans and small business owners a platform to showcase and sell their handmade products.

This not only supports local craftsmanship but also strengthens community ties and inspires entrepreneurial spirit among youth and women, entrepreneurship, local economy, creative industries, women empowerment, youth innovation, handmade products, local businesses, sustainability, inclusive growth, creative economy.

Every Friday and Saturday, the Cultural House hosts engaging workshops covering a wide variety of traditional crafts such as pottery, sculpture, embroidery, palm frond weaving, candle and perfume making, leather arts, Arabic calligraphy, seashell crafts, and jewelry design.

These sessions allow participants to engage in cultural learning while creating tangible pieces of art that reflect Saudi Arabia’s rich artistic legacy, pottery, sculpture, embroidery, calligraphy, weaving, craftsmanship, heritage workshops, creative skills, art education, cultural innovation.

Through these weekly events, the market has become a gathering place for families, artists, and visitors to celebrate the beauty of local creativity.

The lively atmosphere, filled with music, colors, and the scent of traditional foods, creates a memorable experience that captures the essence of Jazan’s welcoming spirit, family activities, cultural tourism, entertainment, community gathering, heritage celebration, creative culture, experiential tourism, festive atmosphere, local traditions.

The initiative not only preserves Jazan’s cultural identity but also enhances national awareness about the importance of heritage preservation.

By encouraging participation from schools, youth associations, and local communities, the event ensures that the legacy of traditional crafts continues to inspire future generations, heritage education, youth participation, cultural sustainability, national pride, identity preservation, traditional knowledge, cultural awareness, intergenerational learning, community spirit, heritage protection.

As Saudi Arabia continues to advance its Vision 2030 goals of promoting culture and tourism, the Jazan crafts market stands as a shining example of how tradition and modernity can harmoniously coexist.

It bridges the past and present through creativity and cultural appreciation, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s soul, Vision 2030, cultural tourism, national heritage, sustainability, innovation, culture and creativity, modernization, economic diversification, tourism development, cultural preservation.

The Jazan crafts market symbolizes more than an event—it is a movement toward preserving cultural heritage while embracing progress.

It reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing dedication to nurturing creativity, empowering artisans, and connecting communities through shared heritage, unity, creativity, progress, sustainability, heritage revival, cultural development, artistic empowerment, national unity, creative culture, future generations.

Organized by the Fashion Commission in collaboration with Collateral Good, IE University, Misk City, Entrepreneurs’ Community by Misk, and Proaltus Capital Partners, the event will take place on November 25 at Misk City.

The forum aims to unite leaders from across industries — fashion, textiles, investment, and education — to discuss the future of sustainability and creative innovation in Saudi Arabia’s growing fashion sector.

The event reflects the Kingdom’s vision to establish a strong, responsible, and forward-thinking fashion ecosystem that aligns with global environmental and economic goals.

Hosted in Misk City, the event represents the city’s broader mission to nurture creativity, entrepreneurship, and sustainability across multiple sectors.

Misk City continues to stand as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s future-ready approach, providing a collaborative platform for innovation and education.

The forum will further enhance this mission by bringing together pioneers in design, technology, and sustainable business practices.

The “Saudi Fabric of the Future” event will feature a diverse lineup of global and local leaders, including government officials, textile innovators, venture capitalists, and creative professionals.

Through a series of panel discussions, interactive workshops, and keynote sessions, participants will explore how technology, sustainable materials, and investment opportunities can transform the Kingdom’s fashion industry.

The forum is not only a celebration of creativity but also a strategic initiative to drive long-term change. It will highlight topics such as circular fashion, renewable materials, ethical production, and investment in sustainable manufacturing.

These discussions will help shape the future of a responsible and globally competitive fashion ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.

A key highlight of the event will be exclusive roundtable sessions designed to connect policymakers, investors, and academic experts.

These sessions will encourage collaborative decision-making and strategic partnerships that can accelerate innovation and sustainability in the fashion sector.

By uniting different fields, the forum aims to position Saudi Arabia as a leader in environmentally conscious and technologically advanced fashion.

The event will also feature a dynamic competition for Saudi entrepreneurs, where participants will present their fashion and sustainability-driven innovations.

Winners will receive mentorship from industry experts, financial support, and opportunities for real-world exposure through collaborations with established brands.

This initiative reflects the Kingdom’s focus on empowering youth and fostering local talent to become global trendsetters in sustainable design.

Networking sessions will serve as another key component, offering attendees the chance to engage directly with investors, entrepreneurs, and creative thinkers.

These interactions are expected to open doors for new collaborations, investments, and business ventures that can expand the Kingdom’s fashion and textile industries into new global markets.

By promoting sustainability, innovation, and investment together, this forum underscores Saudi Arabia’s dedication to aligning with Vision 2030 objectives.

It represents a forward-looking commitment to developing industries that balance creativity with environmental and social responsibility.

The Fashion Commission’s leadership, in partnership with Misk City and its collaborators, is paving the way for the next generation of sustainable designers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

Through “Saudi Fabric of the Future,” Riyadh is taking a major step toward redefining fashion as an engine for cultural identity, economic growth, and ecological balance.

The event is expected to attract significant international attention and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional and global leader in sustainable fashion.

In partnership with the Heritage Commission and the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, the program has provided an opportunity for 15 Saudi students to actively participate in the restoration of historic mosques across the country.

This initiative not only safeguards valuable heritage sites but also equips young Saudis with traditional craftsmanship skills that are vital to maintaining the nation’s cultural legacy.

The students are taking part in a six-month field training program designed to teach traditional mud-brick construction and woodworking techniques under the guidance of specialized Saudi engineers and restoration experts.

Their hands-on involvement ensures that heritage preservation becomes a living educational experience, connecting students directly with their country’s deep architectural traditions.

Another 15 students are set to join the program in the coming days, extending the training into early 2026, further enriching the pool of skilled artisans capable of contributing to heritage conservation.

The program is organized into two key training tracks. The first focuses on traditional construction methods, allowing students to learn the craft of mud-brick building—a technique used for centuries in Saudi architecture.

Through practical modules, trainees gain experience restoring historic mosques using authentic materials, ensuring that the renovations remain faithful to original designs.

Each project is carried out under expert supervision, guaranteeing both historical accuracy and structural integrity.

The second training track centers on the art of crafting traditional Najdi doors, an important element of Saudi architectural identity.

Students are trained in carpentry, carving, and wood production techniques that have been passed down through generations.

This component of the program aims to preserve and revive the craftsmanship that defines Najdi-style architecture, ensuring that this ancient art continues to flourish in modern times.

The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques has already achieved impressive milestones. During its first phase, 30 mosques were restored across 10 regions, and in the second phase, another 30 mosques were completed in 13 additional regions.

Each restoration reflects the project’s dedication to preserving authenticity while incorporating modern sustainability practices. By reviving historic mosques, the initiative breathes new life into communities and creates spaces where history, faith, and culture coexist harmoniously.

The project’s overarching vision is to revive traditional architectural styles, raise public awareness of their cultural significance, and balance heritage preservation with contemporary building standards.

These efforts align closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes cultural sustainability, national identity, and the integration of heritage into modern life.

The initiative underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its architectural authenticity while ensuring that restored mosques remain functional for worship and community gatherings.

Guided by four main objectives, the project aims to prepare historical mosques for worship, restore their original architectural character, highlight Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage, and enhance the Kingdom’s religious and cultural stature globally.

These goals reflect the Kingdom’s broader dedication to showcasing the beauty of its historical identity while promoting education, craftsmanship, and innovation among its citizens.

The involvement of Saudi students adds an inspiring educational dimension to the program. It transforms heritage conservation into an interactive learning process that connects young people to their history, fosters national pride, and encourages them to carry forward traditional building knowledge.

This hands-on experience also supports the Kingdom’s strategy of developing local talent capable of leading future restoration and sustainability projects.

Through initiatives like this, Saudi Arabia continues to demonstrate how heritage preservation can go hand in hand with youth empowerment, cultural innovation, and sustainable development.

The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques stands as a model of how nations can protect their historical treasures while building skills and opportunities for future generations.

His visit also reflected Jordan’s growing diplomatic role in supporting peace, innovation, and regional stability.

According to the Jordan News Agency (JNA), Crown Prince Hussein met with British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Speaker of the UK House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle, and Chair of the International Development Committee Sarah Champion.

The discussions highlighted a shared commitment to building on decades of friendship and collaboration between Amman and London.

During the meetings, the crown prince expressed Jordan’s deep appreciation for the UK’s recent decision to recognize the State of Palestine — a move he described as a “significant and courageous step toward justice and peace.”

He emphasized that this recognition represents a moral and diplomatic milestone in advancing the two-state solution, which remains the cornerstone of regional peace efforts.

Prince Hussein commended the UK for standing on the side of fairness and humanity, especially at a time when the region continues to face immense humanitarian challenges.

He urged the international community to intensify efforts to implement all stages of the Gaza peace agreement and ensure the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid. “The priority must be to alleviate the suffering of civilians and ensure sustainable peace and stability,” he said.

The crown prince also highlighted Jordan’s continued advocacy for the Palestinian people, reaffirming Amman’s steadfast position under the leadership of King Abdullah II.

He praised the crucial work of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), describing it as a “lifeline” that provides hope, education, and essential support for millions of displaced Palestinians. He called on the global community to strengthen its backing for the agency to ensure that vital humanitarian operations continue uninterrupted.

Beyond the political dialogue, Crown Prince Hussein’s visit reflected Jordan’s forward-looking approach to bilateral relations, particularly in areas of technology, innovation, and education.

He expressed Jordan’s readiness to deepen partnerships in these fields, noting that collaboration with the UK could help unlock opportunities for young people, promote digital transformation, and support sustainable economic growth in both nations.

In his meeting with UK parliamentary leaders, Prince Hussein lauded the long-standing cooperation between Jordan and the UK, which has spanned decades of trust and shared values.

He noted that both countries share a common vision for promoting stability, development, and tolerance across the Middle East. The talks also explored expanding educational exchange programs and fostering private-sector collaboration to create new opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Jordan’s ambassador to the UK, Manar Dabbas, attended the meetings and underscored that the visit reinforces the deep political and people-to-people ties between the two kingdoms.

The crown prince’s visit also included a stop at South Bank Technical College, where he met representatives from the global education company Pearson.

Accompanied by his wife, Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein, he explored how educational innovation can bridge skill gaps and empower youth to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. His engagement underscored his strong belief in investing in human capital as a foundation for progress and prosperity.

Throughout the day, Prince Hussein’s discussions in London reflected a positive and forward-looking vision for Jordan’s international partnerships. His focus on youth, technology, and education mirrors Jordan’s growing global image as a hub for innovation and reform in the Arab world.

By commending the UK’s recognition of the Palestinian state and emphasizing humanitarian and developmental cooperation, the crown prince highlighted Jordan’s role as a bridge between the Arab world and the international community.

His visit symbolized a message of hope — one rooted in diplomacy, compassion, and the pursuit of lasting peace and progress.

In reaffirming Jordan’s enduring friendship with the UK, Prince Hussein showcased his generation’s commitment to building a future defined by dialogue, partnership, and shared prosperity.

His words and actions throughout the visit reflected Jordan’s unwavering belief in peace through justice — a principle that continues to guide the nation’s foreign policy and its contributions to regional stability.

The program is designed to empower Indian students and early-career professionals aged 16 and above with vital AI skills — ensuring they are equipped to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven global economy.

This initiative, part of EY’s global corporate responsibility program EY Ripples, aims to bridge India’s growing AI skills gap by making high-quality AI education accessible to all. The program builds on EY and Microsoft’s shared vision to democratize digital literacy and support sustainable economic growth through technology and skill development.

A Global Effort with Local Impact

The AI Skills Passport is not limited to India — it is part of a global initiative that has already engaged over 40,000 participants across multiple countries.

However, the India-focused rollout is especially significant, given the nation’s role as one of the fastest-growing digital economies in the world. India’s youthful population, strong IT ecosystem, and innovation potential make it a key player in the global AI landscape.

Through this program, learners gain access to self-paced online modules spanning approximately 10 hours, available in both English and Hindi. This bilingual approach ensures inclusivity, enabling learners from diverse linguistic and educational backgrounds to benefit equally.

Comprehensive and Practical Curriculum

The AI Skills Passport offers a well-rounded learning experience that combines theoretical understanding with real-world applications. The curriculum covers essential topics such as:

• AI Fundamentals – Understanding what AI is, how it works, and its impact on industries.
• Responsible AI – Exploring ethical considerations, transparency, and bias management.
• Sectoral Applications – Demonstrating how AI transforms industries like healthcare, finance, and technology.
• Career Readiness – Offering practical support such as resume building, interview preparation, and networking guidance.

Participants who successfully complete the course are awarded a verifiable digital badge, which can be added to their professional profiles on platforms like LinkedIn. This certification not only validates their skills but also enhances employability in a market increasingly shaped by automation and AI.

Promoting Inclusion and Equal Opportunity

EY and Microsoft have also partnered with non-profit organisations to ensure that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can access mentorship, learning resources, and career guidance. This inclusive approach reflects the companies’ commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring that India’s AI revolution benefits everyone, not just those with privileged access to technology.

By targeting learners as young as 16, the initiative helps students and young professionals prepare early for future opportunities in AI-related fields. It nurtures curiosity, innovation, and problem-solving — qualities essential for shaping the next generation of tech leaders.

Leaders’ Vision for a Digital India

Monesh Dange, Partner and Leader, Alliances and Ecosystems at EY India, emphasized the transformative nature of the initiative, stating:

“In an era where AI is revolutionising work, the AI Skills Passport addresses India’s urgent need for skilled talent. Together with Microsoft, we aim to ensure the program is accessible and impactful at scale.”

Similarly, Bhaskar Basu, Enterprise Partnerships Leader at Microsoft India & South Asia, highlighted the broader mission behind the collaboration:

“AI is transforming India’s digital economy, and youth are at its core. The AI Skills Passport brings high-quality AI learning to everyone, accelerating Microsoft’s goal to equip 10 million Indians with AI skills by 2030.”

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

The AI Skills Passport initiative comes at a time when the global demand for AI expertise is soaring. With automation, machine learning, and data-driven decision-making reshaping every sector, India’s ability to cultivate a skilled AI workforce is crucial not only for its domestic economy but also for the global technology ecosystem.

By combining EY’s expertise in professional learning and Microsoft’s leadership in AI innovation, the initiative underscores how strategic collaborations can drive large-scale social and economic transformation.

As India continues its rapid digital evolution, the AI Skills Passport stands out as a beacon of empowerment — offering young learners the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in a smarter, AI-enabled world.

Speaking at the commemoration of the World Program of Action for Youth, launched 30 years ago, Al-Ibrahim stressed that the younger generation must be at the center of global strategies.

“In a world where many struggle to embrace long-term vision, youth remain the key factor,” he said. “They possess the future more than we ever will. The lessons from our experiences are clear: involve youth, invest in them, and depend on them today.”

Al-Ibrahim highlighted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman as an example of youth-driven leadership, noting that his transformative vision has helped channel the energy and ambitions of Saudi Arabia’s younger generation into tangible national progress.

“It is not merely about population size, but about leadership,” he added, citing Saudi Vision 2030 as “the best model of long-term planning and sustainable implementation.”

The minister also pointed to global challenges facing young people, warning that nearly half of the world’s population is under 30, yet youth unemployment is three times higher than that of adults. Millions remain outside formal education, training, or employment systems.

Al-Ibrahim cautioned that the global community’s response will determine whether demographic trends become “opportunities that bear fruit or burdens that weigh down the entire global system.”

Michael Arizanti

The youth of Saudi Arabia are a vital asset in the country’s journey towards a more diversified and prosperous economy

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is leveraging its young population’s energy to combat an entrenched Islamist opposition that previously limited social and economic opportunities in the country. It is crucial for policymakers in the West to recognize that the future of nations lies in the hands of their young citizens, who are often overlooked.

Most Western countries such as Italy, Germany, and Portugal face aging populations and low birth rates, leading to limited opportunities for future generations. In contrast, many countries worldwide have a different demographic reality. Approximately 42% of the global population is under the age of 25, with about 525 million people located in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, based on data from the World Bank. Muslim populations are growing at almost double the rate of non-Muslim populations, increasing by roughly 1.5% annually relative to 0.7%.

For leaders of countries with young and expanding populations, the future could be either promising or frightening. Such youthful nations can either nurture innovation, inclusion, and personal and economic growth or repress the aspirations of their young citizens through force. The world’s fate for decades to come largely depends on the path chosen by the Western world to support the youthful population of these countries.

Saudi Arabia, which has a young population with a median age of 27, is capitalizing on its demographic advantage to drive socio-economic development in the country. The government has launched multiple initiatives to empower its youth, such as the National Transformation Program (NTP) and the Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil revenue. This shift towards a knowledge-based economy requires skilled workers, which is why the government has invested heavily in education and training programs for its young citizens.

Moreover, the government is also promoting entrepreneurship and innovation, recognizing that the youth can contribute to the country’s development by creating new businesses and technologies. In 2019, the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) launched the “Invest Saudi” campaign to attract international investors and provide opportunities for young entrepreneurs to establish startups in the country. The country’s burgeoning tech startup ecosystem is providing jobs for young Saudis and diversifying the country’s economy.

However, Saudi Arabia also faces challenges in enabling its youth to realize their full potential. The country’s conservative social norms and gender biases have traditionally hindered the participation of women in the workforce and social activities. The government is working to address this issue by promoting female education and lifting restrictions.

The Western world has a role to play in supporting the youth of countries like Saudi Arabia. By offering educational and employment opportunities, Western countries can equip young Saudis with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive economic growth and innovation in their country. Furthermore, by advocating for human rights and freedoms, Western countries can help create a more inclusive and open society in Saudi Arabia, where the youth can fully participate in shaping their country’s future.

At the same time, Western countries could also learn from Saudi Arabia’s emphasis on investing in youth development. In many Western countries, the aging population poses a threat to economic growth and sustainability, and there is a growing need for skilled workers in fields such as technology and healthcare. By investing in education and training programs for young people, Western countries can help ensure a sustainable future for their economies.

In conclusion, the youth of Saudi Arabia are a vital asset in the country’s journey towards a more diversified and prosperous economy. The government’s focus on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship is commendable, but it must also address issues to enable all young Saudis to fully participate in their country’s development. Western countries can play a constructive role in supporting the youth of Saudi Arabia, while also learning from their successes in youth development.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.