Professional concepts in preventing and countering Islamist radicalization: Insights from practitioners in Germany

Abstract

Extremism is a global threat, and preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) is a worldwide challenge. As a soft-power approach, social work can play a crucial role in P/CVE. This study explores professional concepts and their impact on P/CVE regarding Islamism through eight semi-structured interviews with practitioners in Germany, analyzed using a reconstructive-documentary approach. Findings suggest that social work can contribute significantly to P/CVE if it avoids acting as a repressive agent and focuses on advocacy. Integrating social justice approaches into P/CVE is essential for reducing stigmatization and fostering emancipation. The study demonstrates how professional practice can influence problem perceptions and policies.