Master's thesis examines the multifaceted process of child recruitment into terrorist organizations, with focus on the case of ISIS in Syria and Iraq during the period of caliphate (2014–2017). Drawing on Bronfenbrenner's ecological system theory, the thesis adopts a multidimensional approach to complex socio-ecological environments that contribute to children's vulnerability, radicalization, and recruitment into ISIS. The ecological model enables an examination of multiple interrelated contexts – from immediate family and peer interactions to broader economic, cultural and historical frameworks that shape children's perceptions and developments. Historical and political events in Syria and Iraq generated prolonged instability, widespread violence and institutional collapse. Under these conditions, ideological narratives emphasizing martyrdom and religious duty intertwined with economics insecurity and social pressure, significantly enhanced the effectiveness of ISIS recruitment strategies. Long term exposure to chronic violence and intensive propaganda let to normalization of violence and desensitization to use it. Key social structures and educational institutions functioned as primary environments of indoctrination and recruitment. Schools, mosques and training camps operated by ISIS reinforced extremist beliefs and prepared children for active participation in the organization. The recruitment of children by ISIS is not result of a single factor, but rather the outcome of the interaction of multiple interdependent socio-ecological influences and environments.
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