Countering violent extremism (CVE) is everywhere we look. It is at the top of global security and political agendas; it makes headlines in domestic politics in many countries; it is the buzz word in many of the meetings we attend; and for those of us in the international peacebuilding sector, it is rapidly making its way into our work plans.

This is particularly the case in the Middle East region, including in Tunisia where insecurity caused by terrorist attacks mars the transition, and Syria where the attention of the international community is focused on the rise of the Islamic State. Donors’ increasing interest in working with civil society to tackle violent extremism is highlighted by the growing number of funding calls which explicitly reference the topic. However, CVE is a sensitive issue, particularly for organisations which have built reputations on understanding and addressing the root causes of conflict and working with all sides to resolve tensions.

Rebecca Crozier is International Alert’s Head of Middle East and North Africa (MENA). In this EPLO Brown Bag Lunch discussion, Ms Crozier will talk about International Alert’s work relating to violent extremism in the region. She will share findings of research from Syria and Tunisia on factors which make young people vulnerable to recruitment by violent extremist groups. She will also reflect on the effectiveness of the peacebuilding responses which were designed to address some of these factors.

Ms Crozier’s presentation will be followed by a discussion, in which participants are invited to share their own experiences of navigating the topic of violent extremism.

Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch and EPLO will provide tea and coffee.

Please contact Susanne Wander if you would like to participate.