A holistic approach to understanding radicalisation
Most studies that explore the root causes of extremism are theoretical and lack an empirical basis. While it is understood that radicalisation is fostered by a combination of social, structural and individual conditions, the interplay of these factors is not well understood. The EU-funded DRIVE project highlighted concerns about social exclusion and public mental health care to better understand the processes that lead to radicalisation.
An evidence-based approach
The DRIVE consortium consists of 23 members across Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom. Affiliates include universities, civil society organisations and public mental health experts. The project collected data from 417 respondents using qualitative interviews, 5 501 respondents to a large cross-national survey, over 30 event observations and visual documentation of social media content. The result is the largest dataset in Europe concerning radicalisation in the context of far-right and Islamist extremism. Initially, DRIVE intended to focus exclusively on young people involved in far-right and Islamist groups. Recruitment of participants in these cohorts proved difficult, necessitating a change of approach. Instead, the project focused on a broader spectrum of individuals experiencing social exclusion. According to project coordinator Tahir Abbas: “This methodological pivot, expanding on the original plan, yielded a richer exploration of social realities in contemporary Europe and provided valuable insights into the experiences of those potentially vulnerable to radicalisation.”
Determinants of radicalisation
The insights derived from the project point to an intricate tapestry of factors that foster radicalisation. A major factor is social exclusion. Individuals and communities can experience social exclusion in a variety of contexts, for example, education, employment and public spaces. Furthermore, the project highlights the impact of systemic inequalities in perpetuating the social exclusion of at-risk individuals. Identity also plays a crucial role in radicalisation processes, as it directly impacts how an individual or group may experience social exclusion. Religion was a significant aspect of identity for the project’s Muslim participants, and this fact underscores the need for deradicalisation policies that are sensitive to identity formation and related societal interactions.
Policy recommendations
A key goal of DRIVE was to produce policy-oriented research to help curb radicalisation. Societal actions that address the root causes of extremism require the contributions of a range of stakeholders. As Abbas notes: “Developing holistic approaches to counter radicalisation requires strengthening partnerships and fostering collaboration between government agencies, civil society organisations, community leaders and researchers.” Governments and civil organisations can do much to alleviate social exclusion at the systemic level. Programmes that foster youth empowerment and youth engagement are vital. Also essential is the need to include marginalised voices in public discourse, creating inclusive dialogue in public awareness campaigns, educational initiatives and media literacy programmes. Framing concerns around social exclusion and radicalisation as a public mental health concern can mobilise the necessary resources to support impacted individuals and communities. Modern societies must engage with the dangers of radicalisation and extremism. Based on empirical evidence, DRIVE has shown that the issue is intricate and multifaceted. Instances of extremism can have a wide array of context-specific causes and a holistic approach to identify and address concerns is required. For societies to address radicalisation, Abbas shares: “We must critically focus on addressing the structural and institutional factors that sustain social exclusion.”
Keywords
DRIVE, radicalisation, social exclusion, extremism, holistic approach, public mental health, policy-oriented research
