Violent extremism is a threat to peace, democracy and human rights; it must not only be combated, but also, and above all, prevented
For over 40 years, the Council of Europe has worked to develop and reinforce key legal standards to prevent and suppress acts of terrorism. By taking a comprehensive approach, the Organisation helps member states fight terrorism more effectively by strengthening and improving their national legislation, thereby facilitating international co-operation. With full respect for human rights and the rule of law, the Council of Europe is continuously striving to bring terrorists to justice and bolster international co-operation.
The report synthesises the current evidence base on drivers of violent extremism and looks to identify the situational, contextual, personal, psychological and social factors most commonly associated with those who engage in terrorism.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY INTRODUCTION SYSTEMIC-LEVEL DRIVERS OF VIOLENT EXTREMISM
Governance failure and political exclusion
Socio-economic inequality and marginalisation
Conflict, foreign intervention and global grievances
Cultural identity threats and social polarisation
Digital ecosystems and technological advancements
Social cohesion and moral norms
SETTINGS-LEVEL DRIVERS OF VIOLENT EXTREMISM
Cognitive mechanisms: shaping how people think and feel
Moral mechanisms change what people believe is right or wrong
Attachment mechanisms build emotional bonds that reinforce extremism
Social control mechanisms weaken or replace rules and oversight
SELECTION EFFECTS AND DRIVERS OF VIOLENT EXTREMISM INDIVIDUAL DRIVERS OF VIOLENT EXTREMISM
Socio-demographic drivers
Parallel behaviours as drivers
Beliefs and attitudes as drivers
Destabilising influences as drivers
CONCLUSION
Policy implications
REFERENCES APPENDIX – INCLUDED EMPIRICAL STUDIES ABOUT THE AUTHORS
