ExtremismU.K. Commission Releases Studies on the Causes, Prevalence, Responses to Extremism

The independent U.K. Commission for Countering Extremism is earlier this month published eight peer-reviewed academic papers on the causes of extremism, extremism online, and approaches to countering extremism.

The papers cover the arguments on the causes of extremism, the complex relationship between social media and extremism, as well as discussions on how to best counter extremism.

The Commission notes that the academic papers are the views of the author and not necessarily the Commission’s views.

The Commission says it will continue to publish evidence and analysis across the summer as it builds up to a report making recommendations on extremism for the Home Secretary.

On 19 July 2019, the previous Home Secretary announced plans for a refreshed counter-extremism strategy.

Lead Commissioner Sara Khan argues that if we are to unite the country, then we have to challenge extremism.

Sara Khan said:

I’ve held the most extensive national conversation on extremism. It has lifted the lid on a range of urgent concerns we must address.

I’m releasing some of the findings as we build up to our landmark report on extremism.

The public are fearful of violent extremism, but they are also deeply concerned about hateful extremism.

At the same time minorities are having their rights restricted.

And there is a wider context of intolerance and incivility, especially online.

To unite the country – and to protect our freedom and democratic principles – we have to address each of these issues.