Understanding Deradicalization: Methods, Tools and Programs for Countering Violent Extremism
Daniel Koehler is Director of the German Institute for Radicalization and DeRadicalization Studies (GIRDS) in Berlin. In his book "Understanding Deradicalization: Methods, Tools and Programs for Countering Violent Extremism" (2016) Koehler provides a comprehensive study of different aspects of deradicalization, including the most relevant deradicalization theories, programs, methods and tools. This book provides insight into the theoretical and practical aspects of radicalization and deradicalization based on an intensive review of existing research in this area, the author's own practical experiences as an advocate for deradicalization, more than 50 interviews with former right wing extremists, and detailed case studies of reintegration and separation programs around the world. The author classifies these programs into specific typologies and methodologies, and elaborates on the deradicalization concepts, practices, and effects. The aim of this book is to consolidate the existing knowledge and research fund on the deradicalization process and to improve this field by proposing the deradicalization theory, including instruments for measuring effectiveness, standard methods and procedures, various actors of such programs, and cooperation at the national and international levels. The book enables the readers to discover how the deradicalization programs work, how they can be developed and structured, and how to identify their limitations. However, deradicalization remains a context related activity and there are solutions that do not fit into one size. Policy makers and practitioners must establish those programs that work best in the given political and legal fields. These locally adapted models can and should be based on a thorough understanding of the mechanisms of radicalization and deradicalization, as well as on the quality standards that have proved essential in effective programs.