Numerous videos are currently circulating on TikTok in which young men attract attention with striking outfits and dramatic poses. They present themselves as “strong” figures, box into the camera or throw cool slogans. The so-called “talahon” trend inspires many young people and at the same time leads to discussions about role models and prejudices. We explain what is behind the phenomenon and the challenges it poses.
The “Talahon” trend revolves around a special type of video on TikTok in which mostly young men with a migrant background present themselves in eye-catching outfits: Sweatpants, branded accessories such as fanny packs from Gucci, loose-fitting T-shirts and eye-catching jewelry. The term “talahon” is derived from the Arabic expression “taeal huna” (تعال هنا), which means “come here”. The term became known through the song “TA3AL LAHON” by rapper Hassan, which addresses the hard, urban life and often serves as background music in these videos.
But “Talahon” is more than just visual self-presentation. For many young people, this trend symbolizes strength and recognition. Especially for those who move between different cultures. The style is sometimes humorous and ironic, but is also often interpreted as an expression of pride and belonging. At the same time, the trend offers an outlet for the social pressure and prejudices to which these young people are exposed.
The appeal of the trend lies in the search for identity and belonging, which is particularly formative in the adolescent phase. Many young people long for recognition and a way to stand out on social media and in front of their peers. The “talahon” style conveys strength and rebellion. It allows young people to present themselves beyond classic role models. Studies show that young people often experiment to try out different roles and affiliations – and TikTok offers a perfect stage for this.
For many, “Talahon” embodies the desire for recognition in a society in which young people with a migrant background live between different cultures and often struggle with prejudice. The trend is therefore also perceived as an expression of autonomy and independence
The “Talahon” trend is more than just a youthful style movement – it reinforces stereotypical ideas in some cases and can therefore fuel existing prejudices against young people with a migrant background. The stereotypical staging of “tough masculinity” in these videos, often with aggressive gestures and a rebellious demeanor, suggests a certain image of migrant youth that can easily be misunderstood by the public. For younger viewers in particular, who see such portrayals as role models, this harbors the risk of adopting one-sided role models as “real” images of masculinity.
Another problem is the increasing instrumentalization of the term “Talahon” in right-wing political circles. Originally used humorously, it is now often used as a pejorative and as a collective term for clichés about “problem youths” or those “unwilling to integrate”. Right-wing groups use these videos specifically to spread a negative image of young migrants and stir up social tensions. The stereotypical portrayal in “Talahon” videos creates a distorted image that generalizes young people and ascribes problematic characteristics to them – from “dangerousness” to “unwillingness to integrate socially”. This content is often accompanied by racist comments on social media, which include calls for deportations and blanket condemnations.
The stereotypical portrayal tempts some young people with a history of migration to conform to this role model in order to find recognition and a sense of belonging. In the long term, this can restrict their identity and reinforce their feeling of being an outsider. At the same time, this can lead to prejudice in society and discrimination.
