Countering violent extremism

Unlike counterterrorism (CT), CVE is not a securitized approach. Where counterterrorism is designed for law enforcement and militaries to use violent means to combat terrorism, CVE is designed to use peaceful, non-coercive methods. The difference also lies in the phase of the development of CVE programs, usually towards the beginning of the radicalization process.

Key elements of CVE programs typically include community-based engagement and deradicalization initiatives aimed at vulnerable youth, measures to address extremist content online, and rehabilitation efforts for convicted offenders, often involving psychological and/or religious counseling. CVE is frequently framed within a public health approach, which identifies program targets at three levels: local communities, individuals considered at risk, and those already convicted of extremist offenses.

Following the September 11 attacks, in both the United States and the United Kingdom, CVE has been criticized heavily as a smokescreen for the government to create a large security apparatus, and as an excuse to infiltrate local mosques and other religious communities.