This year marks the 5th annual International Countering Violent Extremism Research Conference hosted by Hedayah in collaboration with M&C Saatchi, Swansea University, TRENDS Research and Advisory, and UN Women, hosted at Swansea University in Wales on the 29th to 31st of August, 2018. This conference saw the bringing together of researchers, policy makers and practitioners. The panelists presented compelling changes in modern approaches to CVE by representing wide geographic and disciplinary ranges in their presentations.
The event has allowed for an exciting mixture of ideas that were focused on connecting research findings with real world ramifications. Over the course of the first day, participants were given the opportunity to explore the tools and techniques that are being used in the spreading of violent extremist sentiments. The primary two sessions of the day were specifically focused on the narratives and possible counter narratives that lead people into, and out of, extremist groups. The first session approached the topic through lens of religious violent extremis and second session assessed far-right extremism is North America, Europe and Australia. The final session focused on tools and methods for reaching individuals through the internet and social media.
During the proceedings, a few main themes were highly prevalent, those being understanding patterns of radicalization of women, and the effect these extremist groups have in relation to the formation of identity and group belonging. Through discussion, participants identified patterns of radicalization and extremism within diverse groups, such as the far right communities, incels, and community leaders.
An interesting line of questioning that came through the days discussion highlighted repeated features in the characteristics and traits of the individuals who commit violent extremist behaviours. These traits share commonalities with misogyny and patterns of gender based violence.
There were many innovative recommendations made throughout the day. Participants left with an understanding of the need for a whole community and grassroots approach to addressing issues of violent extremism on the ground. This concept applies to the localization of definitions used in CVE research and projects, as well as the need for personalized and regionally grounded initiatives that promote education as inoculation against violent extremist sentiments.