This book aims to provide an overview of the importance of communities to mitigate the threat of terrorism, drawing key lessons and experiences from countries adopting community-based approaches. There has been growing recognition among countries to understand the construct of radical ideology and the tools needed to counter its narrative through a more socially inclusive approach, using communities as key stakeholders that have the resolve to be resilient in the fight against terrorism. The chapters provide invaluable insights on the psychological aspects of radicalization, the centrality of counter-ideology and case studies of approaches to promoting moderation, religious harmony and community engagement in building the resilience and resolve against terrorism.

This unique work is the first to address the subject of community engagement strategies in countering extremism, and explores the development and research of these strategies. In so doing it demystifies the process of community engagement, while simultaneously extolling the virtues of the ground breaking strategies to have been effectively employed in Asia, the Middle East, and the West. The book then proceeds to examine the efforts of community engagement made by several countries against their unique operational and geopolitical environments. Finally, detailed reference is made to the role and work of the media and non-government organizations to have conducted effective community engagement efforts. With contributions from authors of diverse backgrounds, including media, the social services, security, and academia, this book will be of interest to both the general public and to researchers.