Jihadist Propaganda on Social Media Recruits More Young People in Spain

In 2024, Spain recorded 81 arrests related to jihadist terrorism, the highest figure since 2004. This increase reflects the intensification of counterterrorism operations in the country.

The International Observatory for Terrorism Studies (OIET) highlights that Catalonia was the autonomous community with the most arrests, totaling 25 detentions. Barcelona established itself as the main focus of the fight against Islamist terrorism, concentrating 14 operations during the year.

A notable aspect is the diversity of the profiles of those detained. People from 15 different nationalities were recorded, including 9 women and 11 minors. This data shows greater heterogeneity in the jihadist threat.

The OIET report emphasizes the growing involvement of minors in terrorist activities. Many of these young people operate in the digital realm, spreading propaganda and recruiting others. This highlights the role of new technologies in recruitment and indoctrination.

Despite the disappearance of the Islamic State's territorial caliphate, its ideology remains the main reference for those detained in Spain. More than 70% of those arrested in 2024 identified with the doctrine of this terrorist group, showing its persistent influence on global jihadist extremism.

Among the main security challenges, the report points out the persistence of radicalized individuals willing to commit attacks. The return of foreign terrorist fighters and the radicalization processes in penitentiary centers. These factors represent constant threats that require attention and specific strategies.

Collaboration between different security forces has been key in detecting and neutralizing these threats. Joint operations between the National Police, the Civil Guard and the Mossos d'Esquadra have allowed the dismantling of jihadist cells and the prevention of possible attacks on national territory.

However, despite the high number of arrests, only 33 of the 81 arrested in 2024 were imprisoned. This data raises questions about the effectiveness of judicial procedures and the need to review incarceration criteria to ensure citizen safety.

The report also highlights the importance of addressing radicalization in environments such as prisons. Interaction with people outside jihadism, family support and experiences in prison are decisive factors in the process of deradicalization and reintegration.