The management of violent extremist prisoners (VEPs) poses major challenges to many United Nations (UN) Member States, according to a new Analytical Brief published by the UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED). At the same time, the detention period represents a unique opportunity to promote disengagement from violence and develop prevention strategies that can reduce the risks of recidivism in the medium- and long-term.

Challenges identified stem from a host of different reasons. First, the scale of the issue is often unknown or, at best, only roughly estimated. Second, violent extremist prisoners are not a homogenous prison population category, and tailored efforts need to be put in place to address specific needs. Third, for the management of VEPs to be effective, many factors need to be taken into consideration and adequate resources be provided.

In resolution 2396 (2017), the Security Council acknowledges that “prisons can serve as potential incubators for radicalization to terrorism and terrorist recruitment” and encourages States to “take all appropriate actions to prevent inmates who have been convicted of terrorism-related offences from radicalizing other prisoners to violence, with whom they may come into contact”.

Experiences gained by States in diverse geographical regions suggest a number of elements that can contribute to enhanced management of violent extremist prisoners, including improving the capacity of staff; developing tailored protocols for the management of risks; and designing and implementing individualized rehabilitation and reintegration plans to support VEPs’ successful re-entry into society and reduce the risk of recidivism. Treatment of prisoners should always respect human rights, which contributes to security and good order in the prison context and enhances prospects for success more long-term. The importance of ensuring a whole-of-society approach that includes inter-agency and multisectoral cooperation and involves non-governmental organizations and religious actors is also highlighted.