The UK Parliament Home Affairs Select Committee has published the results of its enquiry into the roots of radicalisation. They conclude that:
- Radicalisation is declining within Muslim communities in the UK, but there has been a growth in right-wing violent extremism;
- The UK government should collate and make available – where possible – data from the Channel programme of interventions with individuals deemed to be at risk from radicalisation;
- Grievance is a driver for radicalisation, which means that tackling Islamophobia needs to be part of the Prevent strategy;
- There needs to be a stronger emphasis within the Prevent strategy on building trust in democratic institutions and the democratic process;
- The Internet seems to play a more important role in the radicalisation process than universities, religious institutions or universities;
- Further research is needed into the link between recruitment into radical groups and criminal gangs;
- More emphasis is needed on the threat from far right violent extremism;
- Clearer guidance is needed for universities about their role and there needs to be a clear contact point within government for student unions and university administrators;
- Gaps in support need to be plugged for prisoners being released back into the community, and there needs to be a more regular flow of information between prison and probation systems.
The report can be downloaded here.