Policy Brief

Civic Education as a Preventive Measure and Inclusionary Practice

Abstract

Civic education programs show potential for combating radicalization and violent extremism but
require nuanced approaches. Key challenges include:

• Engaging vulnerable youth who distrust institutions
• Customizing activities for different age groups
• Tailoring content and formats for prisoners amid restrictions
• Avoiding overbroad definitions that inaccurately label social issues
• Balancing customization and stigmatization risks
• Building trust and cultural competence, not coercion

Participatory methods like roleplaying, theatre-base activities, dialogues and arts activities have shown 
some promise for building critical thinking, empathy, cooperation, and resilience against extremist 
ideologies. Proper facilitator training is crucial to encourage reflection without endorsing radical 
perspectives. Community-rooted programs help tailor activities to local contexts while promoting 
inclusion.

Recommended policy actions:

• Support participatory civic education as part of comprehensive prevention
• Develop resources and trainings to equip facilitators with skills for managing sensitive 
discussions and activities
• Foster partnerships between schools, NGOs, and local authorities to establish inclusive civic 
education spaces
• Promote interdisciplinary input and community involvement in program design for localization 
and cultural resonance
• Refine target group definitions to avoid overreach
• Fund specialized reintegration programs incorporating civic education components for 
particular target groups such as detainees and returning foreign fighters