Towards a Definition of Jihadist Radicalization : A Case Study (original) (raw)
Counter-Terrorism (CT) and Counter-Insurgency (COIN) -A NATO COE-DAT Research Project-, 2024
This chapter focuses on the concepts of, and efforts to, prevent violent extrem- ism (PVE), and counter violent extremism (CVE) (together, P/CVE) in support of NATO (and other liberal democratic) states. It places these concepts in the wider arc of our evolving thinking about war, terrorism, insurgency, and how to address these problems. Though other chapters address counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency in detail, this chapter provides a short historical con- textualization of these terms, as well as P/CVE. This simple contextualization of these highly-charged terms lets us see fundamental patterns in our evolving use of the terms. This pattern in the usage reflects a deeper, less visible, but vital evolution in our understanding of the terrorism and insurgency, and in our collective understanding of how to successfully address them. After this contextualization, and a discussion of the key research findings on P/CVE, the chapter introduces a concept not included in the formal charter for the volume or in NATO doctrine: conflict transformation (CTr). Conflict transformation (which has continuities with counter-insurgency (COIN) but is grounded in peace building rather than war fighting) helps us with the next step in the nec- essary evolution in our understanding of how to successfully resolve these problems. The evolution of terms, and of our understanding of these problems, is not of mere academic curiosity. Applying our learning to phenomena as po- liticized and complex as terrorism and insurgency requires an understanding of how we have learned, what the blockages to our learning and the application of that learning have been, as well as what we have learned. Our evolving understanding, grounded in research over the post 9/11 era, highlights critical operational aspects for counter-terrorism (CT), and counter-insurgency opera- tions to which planners must attend.
The Concept of Countering Violent Extremism
2015
After the terrorist attacks in Paris, Europe is stepping up repressive measures to combat terrorism. Yet, prevention and the “soft” aspects of counterterrorism measures must also be kept in mind. The concept of Countering Violent Extremism (CVE), in conjunction with peace and development policies, has developed as part of a modern approach to counterterrorism. This creates opportunities for Swiss foreign policy.