Mothers United Against Terrorism

This week it was reported in the Derby Telegraph that two women from the Muslim community have set up a course to help mums spot the signs of extremism in their families and the community.

Tazim Fayaz, one of the founders of Tackling Terrorism through Women, said she had been inspired by mums coming to her with fears about their children spending excessive time in their bedrooms on the internet.

Over the past few years, young Western men and women have joined extremist networks after being recruited by violent jihadists, often operating online. Every parent needs to be aware of the risks posed by the internet and social media.

She said: “Mums had fears about what was happening on the internet because they didn’t really understand it themselves. They weren’t computer literate and didn’t have the knowledge to put on parental controls.

“I wanted to get the children off the internet and to integrate more with their families but also to look at vulnerabilities, what they may be looking at and who they may be talking to.”

They are not alone.

Mothers for Life, a global network with members in seven countries, aims to bring bereaved mothers together, to share their experiences and prevent other families suffering the devastation that they have suffered.

Women without Borders, an international NGO based in Vienna, with years of experience working in the field of counter terrorism, is pioneering a strategy of using mothers of Jihadist fighters and supporters to help counter the radicalisation of young men and women.

These organisations are a brilliant example of the role that mothers can play in protecting their children from extremism and online radicalisation.

Parents must understand that many young people under the influence of extremists do not exhibit any changes in behaviour and continue to be their usual bright, sociable selves. Travel to Syria and Iraq often appears to come out of the blue.

If you are concerned about a family member or loved one travelling to Syria or being radicalised online then please click here for our free and impartial advice.