Programs for Countering Violent Extremism: Limitations and Possible Solutions

• In Event: Terrorism and Beyond

Abstract

The current response by governments to the radicalization of individuals to violent extremist organizations has been Countering Violent Extremism (CVE) programs. This has produced both an influx of CVE programs and an increase in literature discussing what should be included within these programs. Though there are many theoretical approaches outlining which elements should be included in CVE programs, the resulting programs and/or specific elements has largely been ignored in practice. This study reviews existing CVE programs’ elements and practices to identify limitations or the potential limitations of them. For example, there are concerns that these programs may be hastily put together, low staffed, and/or insufficiently funded. This study concludes with a discussion of potential solutions for these limitations and how programs could be improved in the future.

Author

• Christine Neudecker, Simon Fraser University