Community engagement in preventing extremism: A step-by-step approach

Although governments and public authorities must do their utmost to prevent polarisation, extremism and radicalisation, these issues cannot be tackled effectively without community involvement. Polarisation, which can create a breeding ground for radicalisation, involves growing tensions between communities. Trust and dialogue between communities and authorities can help to prevent and temper this process.

Community engagement is, therefore, a vital tool in the prevention of polarisation and extremism. But collaboration with local authorities is in the interest of communities as well: by sharing knowledge and resources with local authorities, they can better serve their members and protect them from the influences of extremists.

The paper, published and elaborated by RAN, provides a step-by-step approach and is written for local coordinators, community workers and community representatives interested and involved in the prevention of polarisation and radicalisation.

Download paper on the website of the European Commission