This study about violent extremism focuses mainly on young adults and their key drivers, influences and pathways. These children tend to have a biological tendency towards risk-taking and can be vulnerable towards polarized message content.
The key message when making a program for young adults on this topic is the importance of children not entering adolescence with poor social bonds. This is especially crucial to focus on because once a child joins a violent group, the pathway is rapid and often unidirectional.
PVE studies aim to give children skills and opportunities to build a constructive social existence.
According to the study, a child resilience strategy should be based on 4 pillars:
- Building potential developing social interest
- Building competency developing social interest
- Strengthening social contact
- Eliminating violence against children
The study starts with a focus on the interventions that can be made to support resilience - within the home and as part of extracurricular programs: promoting social cohesion and peaceful conflict resolution and value development. Like this, children can learn critical thinking, self-reflection, empathy and egalitarian values.
The study goes on to look at good governance: efforts to strengthen the rule of law, eliminate corruption and promote political accountability. As a complementary goal, they also build resilience and eliminate violence against children.
Finally, it is vital that donor states lead by example. They must be reminded to develop strategies, introduce policies that protect diversity and empower people in all socio-economic brackets. Donor states also have a key role in creating opportunities to promote the free-flow of ideas.