Young people join violent extremist groups far more frequently than other age groups. However, this is no more a reliable indicator of vulnerability to recruitment than being male, Muslim, a petty criminal, or having mental health problems. Violent radicalisation occurs when grievances, ideology, potent narratives and charismatic recruiters collide. To tackle it, each of these must be challenged as part of a full spectrum approach. Extremely Together considers youth to be an opportunity not a threat. Its approach to countering violent extremism (CVE) mobilises the power of young people who refuse to join violent extremist organisations and refute the simplistic stories and divisive values they promote. We agree with the United Nations’ Action Plan to Prevent Violent Extremism (2015), which states that young people are invaluable members of civil society who play a critical role in the struggle against violent extremism. In this Guide, ten young leaders share their ideas across differences of nationality, religion, gender, politics, and professional background, in the hope of helping 1.8 billion young people to build a future, free of violent extremism, that is rooted in shared values and a commitment to cooperation and tolerance. Extremely Together hopes to inspire young people around the world to make a positive difference. We work together to help young people in their struggles to resist extremism of all kinds, promote peace and security locally and regionally, and make their voices heard in mainstream and social media.
The Guide names some of the elements that underlie the problem of violent extremism, highlights key areas of need that must be addressed, and suggests practical actions that every young person can take to protect his or her friends and community and help build a foundation for long term solutions.