This paper takes an in depth look at how multi-lateral institutions, engage with civil society to counter violent extremism. Dr. van Ginkel argues that civil society can play a crucial role in preventing and countering violent extremism in numerous ways – by working on development programs, through their work in…

Following terrorist attacks, governments are often quick to express their solidarity with victims of terrorism but as the memory of a terrorist atrocity fades, political attention for the victims also ebbs away – in both government and society. In this ICCT Research Paper, Dr. Alex P. Schmid explores the roles…

This policy briefing is divided into three parts. The first section identifies the main Islamist forces in Libya and briefly overviews their backgrounds. The second part attempts to understand the salient issues facing Libyan Islamists and the effect they have on Islamist political behavior. The final section concludes with policy…

The concept of the Young Democracy Ambassador was proposed in the 2012 Action Plan to Prevent Violent Extremism, operated by the Finnish Interior Ministry. It was initiated in part due to the unique vulnerabilities of young people, and their susceptibility to joining and engaging with violent extremist groups., The Young…

This article describes and analyses trans-national cooperation of right-wing extremist parties and movements in East-Central Europe. It deals with contacts and organizations of various extreme right actors within various fields (a. o. education, subcultures etc.). It comes to the conclusion that the impact of Western (German, American, British) extreme right…

The issue of the far right concerns the entire European continent. In this context, the Slovak Republic and Hungary, two neighboring states in Central Europe, offer an interesting example. This is largely due to the traditionally problematic relations between the two countries. This undoubtedly fuels far right organizations and enhances…

The recent arrest of a number of individuals suspected of planning a terrorist attack at the 2012 London Olympic Games is a timely reminder of the security threats that face the Games. Confining the original security budget to the paper bin and almost doubling the number of security personnel at…

This paper addresses the issue of homegrown extremism in the United States. While the appeal of organizations such as Al Qaeda appears to be in general decline, analysts have detected in recent years an uptick in terrorism advocated and committed by US residents or citizens. This type of radicalization, the…

As a result of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the bombings in Madrid and London, a prevention focussed counter?terrorism approach has developed across the European Union (EU). While the majority of these laws, regulations and policies recognise the importance of the rule of law and human rights, it remains relevant…

This outlines the intrinsic Islamic teachings about balance and moderation, and highlights Qur’anic warnings against extremism, as well as the Prophet Muhammad’s specific, practical advice about manifesting faith in such a way as to avoid extremes. Ways to combat extremism are then outlined from the Islamic tradition, including dialogue, respect…

In this ICCT Research Paper, Prof. Dr. Edwin Bakker reviews and analyses over 60 publications that attempt to predict the future of terrorism. The Paper aims to provide a general review of publications on the future of terrorism by academics, think tanks and government agencies over the past ten years….

The 2010 Swedish general election marked a critical moment in Swedish politics, as the Sweden Democrats (SD), the country’s leading anti-immigration party, gained representation in Parliament. This was achieved despite decades of systematic marginalisation and stigmatisation of the party by mainstream politicians, civil society and the media due to its…