Youth radicalisation has recently been emerging at increasing levels in Europe. In Cyprus, engagement with violent extremist movements of the same intensity or frequency as other countries in Europe, has not yet surfaced. Nonetheless, tendencies that relate to radicalisation such as racism, intolerance and hate crime have been reported.
The research for Cyprus was carried out within the framework of the YEIP project. A mixed methodology approach was adopted, the findings of which, having been analysed, led to the creation of a Multi-factorial Model of Youth Radicalisation. Primary and secondary data was collected from governmental departments, the National Strategy of Radicalization, but also from a National youth-led seminar on radicalisation. The seminar was attended by representatives of the public authorities and experts from research centres, the academic community and young people. The findings demonstrated that radicalisation in Cyprus is centered on:
- Education
- Prevention
- Awareness raising
- Countering
The Multi-factorial Model of Youth Radicalisation includes, among other factors, psycho-social education of young people on multiculturalism, respect and human rights, awareness- raising at all levels of society, the provision of positive alternatives for personal and social development, but also the creation of an open and active society that will effectively resist forms and expressions of radicalization. Using this model to shape and inform the current policies and practice regarding radicalisation in Cyprus is crucial to ensure that young people are at the front-line of tools that will help prevent radicalisation.
Find the Greek chapter at page 218 of the full report “YOUNG, MARGINALISED BUT NOT RADICALISED A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF POSITIVE APPROACHES TO YOUTH RADICALISATION”.
