Defining radicalisation

Governments often use the word ‘radicalisation’ in consonance with violent extremism. However, looking at the historical context, radicalism has often led to progress and has usually been distinct from extremism. Whereas both radicalism and extremism are distant form mainstream politics, radicalism is usually open-minded, while extremism is usually closed-minded, and justifies the use of violence for achieving its objectives. Notwithstanding this historical context, today ‘radicalisation refers to an increase in and/or reinforcing of extremism in the thinking, sentiments, and/or behaviour of individuals and/or groups of individuals’ (Mandel, 2008, p 19).

The UK government defines extremism as:

The process of radicalisation is complex and there are a number of models for describing the stages of radicalisation. For example, Mandel suggests a four-step process: pre-radicalisation, selfidentification, indoctrination and ‘jihadisation’. However, as suggested by Mandel, this model fails to consider ‘the psychological, organisational and social processes and drivers that lead people into radicalisation process’ (2008, p 19).

Government strategies for addressing radicalisation

Different countries have adopted different approaches to addressing radicalisation. For example, the Aarhus model in Denmark offers specific counselling and mentoring services for those who have been radicalised. This model also includes an exit programme designed as micro-level interventions for those who support extremism and are prepared to carry out violent acts (instead of imprisonment, for example, the programme offers opportunities for employment to those who wish to leave extremist organisations). The Aarhus model has an important focus on the rehabilitation of fighters returning from Syria. This model involves all the relevant stakeholders, that is, parents, family network, social workers, teachers and all others who can provide support and safeguard the young people at risk of radicalisation. The effectiveness of this model has been due to its co-productive approach and recognition that the process of radicalisation is different for each individual. Most importantly, this model focuses on creating trust between authorities and the social environment in which the extremists operate.