The danger of shunning the ‘ISIS brides’

The danger of shunning the ‘ISIS brides’

From 7am by Solstice Media

May 7, 2026 · 17 min · Episode 1907

About this episode

The episode discusses the return of women and children associated with the Islamic State to Australia and the political and social implications of their return.

Late yesterday, four women and nine children arrived in Australia from Syria.  The women, who originally left the country to be part of the Islamic State caliphate, have spent the years since its collapse in Syrian refugee camps.  Many of their children, who are Australian citizens too, have never been here before.  But they aren’t the first to come back – since 2019, women and children like them have been returning.  What they’re returning to has become more and more hostile, with politicians maintaining they aren’t welcome, and police threatening arrest.   Today, Professor Michele Grossman, expert on violent extremism from Deakin University, on our responsibility to these citizens and the danger of politicising their position.    If you enjoy 7am , the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support . And special credit for the audio of Australian children inside al-Roj refugee camp goes to William Christou and the Guardian.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Expert on violent extremism from Deakin University, Professor Michele Grossman Photo:  AP…

People in this episode

Guest: Professor Michele Grossman

Topics covered

  • ISIS brides
  • returning citizens
  • violent extremism
  • political response
  • refugee camps

Keywords

  • ISIS
  • refugees
  • Australia
  • violent extremism
  • politics
  • children
  • Syria

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Deakin University, the Guardian

Places: Australia, Syria, Islamic State, al-Roj refugee camp

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