Building resilient communities, preventing violent extremism
Violent extremism is a complex and context-specific phenomenon that never emerges in a vacuum. Radicalisation into violent extremism or terrorism is driven by a combination of personal factors and external influences. It is rooted in complex layers of feelings of marginalisation, a strong sense of injustice, unresolved grievances, psychological trauma, lack of trust in the institutions and a personal quest.
From the threat of jihadist-inspired attacks to rising far-right movements andT incels, the EU faces a complex and evolving landscape of rising violent ideologies. In response, Prevention and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) policies have increasingly recognised the importance of a multi-sectoral approach that addresses security concerns as well as the underlying social, political, and economic drivers of radicalisation.
The EU’s prevention and countering violent extremism agenda incorporates a wide range of interventions including:
The European Agenda on Security, adopted in April 2015, outlines the EU's strategy to address terrorism, radicalisation, organized crime, and cybercrime.
Radicalisation Awareness Network (RAN): A platform that connects practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to share best practices and insights on preventing and countering radicalisation.
Horizon Europe: A EU’s research and innovation programme that includes funding for research projects aimed at understanding and countering radicalisation, violent extremism, and terrorism.
EU Internet Forum: A collaborative effort with online platforms to combat the spread of extremist content online.
Due to the latest geo political development, fostering social cohesion and building the capacities of local authorities, communities and organisations in preventing radicalisation processes remain crucial. The feelings of insecurity, injustice and helplessness could feed into vulnerability to extremist narratives.
At Radar Europe, we believe that effective prevention starts with smart cooperation between all involved stakeholders within society. From the strategical national policy level to the grass root level within the communities and families. From national and local authorities to the first line practitioners, schools, communities and families. Prevention and Countering Violent Extremism is rooted in the understanding that violent extremism is not just a security issue—it is a social and political challenge that must be addressed through sound and sustainable cooperation, fostering inclusion, dialogue, and trust-building.Our expertise focuses on:
Developing innovative research, evaluation, and knowledge sharing that brings local realities to the attention of national and EU-level stakeholders.
Identifying and addressing root causes of violent extremism, meaning the wide array of factors on the macro, meso and micro levels of analysis that play a role in the process of radicalistion.
Coordinating key actors networks such as the Radicalisation Awareness Network (RAN)
Supporting community-led initiatives that foster dialogue, strengthen social cohesion, and challenge narratives of hate and division.
Amplifying youth and women's leadership in peacebuilding and prevention, recognising their essential roles as agents of change.
Radar Europe works collaboratively with stakeholders across Europe to implement evidence-based strategies that foster resilience, promote social cohesion and support a proactive approach to security and governance.
