Mapping Successful Countering Violent Extremism Strategies for Implementation in Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh, already troubled by the malady of violent extremism (VE), has become particularly vulnerable to radicalization via the internet, with one of the world's largest adolescent populations adopting the internet and social media. Countering VE (CVE) practitioners frequently assert that extremists are increasingly relying on technological innovations to recruit naive youths to their cause, which they believe is a trend that is accelerating. This research examines existing programs throughout the world in the area of disruptive technologies that have had some impact in the areas of preventing and combating VE (P/CVE). Secondary research and expert interviews were used in conjunction with each other to develop the technique. The report outlines successful efforts in technology-based initiatives that have been implemented in Bangladesh as a result of the knowledge gathered in the process. After that, proposals for CVE deployment techniques have been suggested, which might possibly be adopted or coordinated by USAID and other funders and practitioners in the field of P/CVE.