CVE Programs and Initiatives through the Ages: A snapshot of the past, present, and future

We have now reached the stage where there are many countering violent extremism (CVE) programs and initiatives in existence. Each program leaves a unique imprint, making it possible to trace these efforts through the ages, as well as give some indication as to what is working and not working. An extensive literature review surveying academic publications and independent/government reports regarding radicalization theory, and more specifically, deradicalization, disengagement, rehabilitation, and prevention efforts is used to build the framework for this study’s database. A content analysis utilizing data triangulation is then conducted on 67 existing or previously existing CVE programs/initiatives. The Information drawn from these programs is used to develop a timeline of where CVE efforts have been, where they are now, and provides an idea of where they might be going. Some impressions made by these efforts have been marked – good and bad, lending pertinent information to the development of these types of programs. This study is intended to inform and improve the next generation of CVE programming.