The international community has gained considerable experience in addressing terrorism during the last two decades. Today, three major lessons stand out: First, security-based counterterrorism measures are necessary, but not sufficient. Second, there is a pressing need to invest in a preventive approach, rather than a reactive one. Third, local communities can and should play an important role in preventing radicalization and extremism leading to terrorism.

Radicalization and extremism leading to terrorism are complex phenomena that do not occur in a vacuum. Terrorist organizations tap into real or perceived political, economic, social, cultural and historical grievances to recruit followers. And while terrorism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality or civilization, it is clear that false interpretations of all religions have long been an integral part of extremist narratives of intolerance and violence.

CCCPA’s “Preventing Radicalization and Extremism Leading to Terrorism” (PRELT) is the first of its kind in Africa. It seeks to empower local religious and community leaders and influencers to contribute to improving “community” resilience to radicalization and extremism leading to terrorism, and to raising “individual” barriers of entry to terrorist organizations. The course provides trainees with the knowledge and skills to construct and deliver inclusive peace narratives, including those based on Sharia and Islamic teachings. It is not intended as an alternative to current peacebuilding efforts, but rather as a complementary tool.

PRELT training courses cover the following modules: Understanding radicalization through conflict analysis, rules and ethics of war and peace in Islam, deconstructing and refuting terrorist master narratives and developing inclusive narratives and messages.