Counter Violent Extremism Measures: African Perspectives and Research Needs (original) (raw)

This research builds on and provides an update on the various milestones and strategies that have greatly impacted research on countering violent extremism (CVE) globally. Although, of specific interest, this research seeks to impact and influence research on countering violent extremism in Africa. Based on published research, media reports, as well as desktop research by the authors of this research, it intends to provide guidance on any practical development in strategic thinking and mission in respect to the subject here in. This research is not a comprehensive argument on way forward regarding countering violent extremism in Africa, but it proposes to guide the thoughts around the issues of countering violent extremism in Africa. This research neither disposes of the recent arguments which have been debated upon on other conferences but seeks to build on those arguments with an intention of steering thoughts to a more refined and clearer conceptualization of countering violent extremism. The key message of this research is that: There is need to clearly conceptualize concepts based from an African Experience and Perspective; Cooperation among African States in Counter Violent Extremism is crucial; research on terrorism and CVE is crucial as terrorist groups are evolving and intelligent; learn from what others have already done and build on to it better; and research is a fundamental aspect of understanding all aspects in regard to CVE in Africa.