Countering radicalization to violence in Canada: Policy and intervention

The development of non-kinetic and non-coercive policy tools in counter-terror, roughly called countering violent extremism (CVE), has been controversial but important. However, an expanded evidence base and “good practices” have begun to enable more effective and nuanced CVE policy, including the development of early intervention programs. To ensure that CVE policies for early intervention in Canada are aligned with Canadian principles, supported by research, and proportionate to the Canadian threat environment, this research provides an overview of the theory, history, and current practice in Canada, and makes recommendations for future developments in the field. Canada’s early intervention policies are well-designed but could be improved by developing safeguards for current programs and supporting parents’ associations and family counseling.