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Questioning the Use of ISA Detention for Youth Radicalisation Cases

Published July 28, 2026 at 8:02 AM UTC

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While the threat of violence is real, detaining teenagers under the Internal Security Act (ISA) raises serious questions about the long-term impact on their lives. The ISA allows for indefinite detention without trial, which can hinder a young person's development and stigmatise them upon release. The 14-year-old who planned a school stabbing is still a child, and experts argue that community-based interventions, such as family counselling and school monitoring, might be more effective at addressing the root causes of radicalisation. The ISA's secrecy also means the public knows little about the conditions of detention or the progress of rehabilitation. Could a criminal justice approach, with transparency and legal safeguards, offer a better balance between security and rights? Furthermore, focusing on punishment may ignore the role of online platforms in radicalising youth. Critics call for more investment in digital literacy and mental health support to prevent radicalisation before it escalates. While safety is paramount, the government must ensure that the rights of young detainees are protected and that their future is not irreparably damaged.