Researchers work with former right-wing extremists to prevent and counter recruitment into violent organizations

Empathy, respect and support are needed for those who may be tempted to join hate groups, or are trying to leave them, study finds.

As groups like The Base aspire to ever-more violent acts, Canadian law enforcement authorities are treating right-wing extremism as a mounting threat to the country’s security.

In two new articles published in the journals Studies in Conflict & Terrorism and Perspectives on Terrorism, Concordia researchers present in-depth analyses of life-course interviews with former members of right-wing extremist groups. These formers offer their candid opinions on ways recruitment into these groups can be prevented and countered, and on the options available to those who want to leave.

Photo credit : Concordia University