It is entirely understandable that we should be shocked that some hundreds of our young men have gone to Syria to fight for Islamic State. However, given the allure of the idea of re-establishing the Caliphate-in effect, to act as the heroes of the 'Khalifa Rashida' (Righteous Caliphate) did in the past, is it so surprising? And do they constitute a large or a small number?
We can say that despite the headlines, the number of families who have migrated to Syria is tiny, and that of girls going to be 'jihadi brides' is infinitesimal. It is very sad that they are throwing their lives away, and devastating for their families. But many people do this without going anywhere.
I don't personally think that it is a very good idea to give 16 year olds the vote. However, there are quite a lot of people who support it. We can therefore hardly complain if young people who many argue should be trusted with a say in the governance of our country, exercise their ability to choose to leave it.
No comments:
Post a Comment