Paris, France, February 2019 – The European Forum for Urban Security (Efus) promotes the sharing of experiences among European local authorities according to the principle of “cities helping cities.” Below are some of the initiatives taken by our member local authorities to prevent radicalisation.
> The central role of local authorities
Local and regional authorities play a key role in preventing and countering radicalisation leading to violent extremism. Because they are close to citizens, they are strategically placed to carry out targeted actions and mobilise the relevant local stakeholders.
Prevention is essential in countering radicalisation and, apart from police work and legal action, prevention policies must mobilise local crime prevention partnerships.
> Efus: a key expertise in the issue of radicalisation
Efus has directed or participated in over a dozen European projects on the topic of radicalisation. Currently, it is leader in the following projects: Bridge, Local voices, Loud and Prepare. It is also partner in Pactesur, Practicies and Protect.
Furthermore, Efus has long term or one-off partnerships with leading organisations working on this issue, such as the Radicalisation Awareness Network (RAN) and Strong Cities network.
Efus has also published memoranda and books such as Prevention of violent radicalisation – Methodological guide for the development of a local strategy (2017) and Preventing and Fighting Radicalisation at the Local Level (2016), which present promising practices and practical recommendations for local authorities.
> Exchanges around promising initiatives
The publication European Local Authorities are mobilising against radicalisation presents initiatives carried out by 15 Efus member local authorities from 9 European countries. It is meant to provide support and inspiration for other local authorities and foster the exchange of experiences.
Augsburg’s (DE) network for the prevention of Salafism; the community mediation service of L’Hospitalet de Llobregat (ES), Riga’s (LV) crime prevention municipal strategy; Vilvoorde’s (BE) Second Wave project… these are some of the actions implemented by Efus member local authorities.
This brochure is not comprehensive and we invite you to share your initiatives and actions!
>>> Read the brochure
>>> Read Efus’ position paper and presentation of activities on radicalisation
