How do extremist messages infiltrate the digital environments of young people? Which platforms, formats, and strategies are used – and how can young people be protected from them? These questions are at the heart of Dr. Josephine B. Schmitt’s talk at the Wissensrunde on May 20, 2025, in Bochum.
In her presentation, “Radicalization in Digital Spaces: How Extremist Messaging Reaches Young People”, Josephine B. Schmitt analyses how radical groups deliberately use social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to disseminate anti-democratic and inhumane content. She highlights how such messages can often appear harmless at first glance, yet are designed to influence attitudes and trigger radicalization processes. The talk also outlines how evidence-based methods can be used to identify problematic content and counteract its effects.
The event is part of the Wissensrunde – an open dialogue series launched by UniverCity Bochum in February 2025 and held monthly at the Haus des Wissens. The goal of the series is to foster dialogue between science, urban society, and politics. Each session addresses a key question related to digital transformation and encourages public engagement.
Josephine B. Schmitt’s talk is part of this year’s theme: “Securities – Public, Private, Digital: How (Un)Safe Are We Really?”, which frames the 2025 edition of the Wissensrunde. Participation is free of charge. Registration via VHS Bochum is recommended, but not mandatory.
Further information and registration:https://vhs.bochum.de/programm/politik-gesellschaft-umwelt/kurs/Radikalisierung-im-digitalen-Raum-Wie-extremistische-Ansprachen-erreichen/K13203