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Radicalisation is defined as the action or process of causing someone to adopt radical positions on political or social issues. It is often referred to in relation to perpetrators of violent terrorist acts. Understanding the prevalence and the rapidly changing character of radicalisation and extremism is a challenge for academics, professionals and policymakers alike.
The EU-funded PERICLES project is taking a comprehensive approach to preventing and countering radicalisation and violent extremism.
The underlying processes and factors that lead different individuals and groups to adopt radical ideas and commit acts of violence are complex. Combating radicalisation requires a concerted and cooperative effort across a number of domains.
The PERICLES project is delivering an interactive IT-based platform and a set of counter-radicalisation tools. The platform comprises a forum for exchange and cooperation between relevant authorities, including law-enforcement and security agencies.
Importantly, the exchange forum also welcomes the participation of prison officials, social workers, teachers, other professionals working in the field of counter-radicalisation, and even the relatives of radicalised individuals.
Violent left-wing and right-wing, as well as religious ideologies, are all targets of the PERICLES prevention strategy. Furthermore, the project is placing a special emphasis on the risks posed by digital propaganda of a violent nature.
The PERICLES tool kit makes available advanced and validated counter-propaganda resources for a variety of user groups. These resources include: a vulnerability assessment tool for identifying those at risk; a care package for families vulnerable to or already affected by radicalisation; a skills and competencies package for front-line counter-radicalisation workers; and a special cyber defence tool for detecting internet-based radicalisation activities.
Radicalisation, especially cyber-based radicalisation, is among the most serious threats now facing European society. The PERCILES project is playing its part in helping the authorities to meet this threat and to protect citizens.