14 June 2011

No, you cannot treat violent and non-violent extremism separately

.... Hasan attacks Prevent's lack of distinction between "non-violent" and "violent" extremism. But if one does not counter the basis of extremist ideology, isn't it then too late to stop it being translated into terrorist action?

Non-violent extremism encompasses those who condemn terrorist attacks in this country but are happy to justify suicide attacks against British troops in the Middle East.

These views poison the minds of young people for whom the next logical step is to translate their anger into violence. "Non-violent" and "violent" extremism are different sides of the same coin, and both have to be fought together. [Guardian Cif] Read more