Gendered pathways to radicalization and desistance from violent extremism: Lessons from early-intervention programmes in the United Kingdom

This research explores the drivers of radicalization to and engagement in violent extremism and the factors of disengagement and desistance among women and girls by examining cases of individuals that went through the United Kingdom’s Channel programme. Channel cases were chosen for this analysis because it is one of the longest running (since 2007) and most documented early-intervention programmes developed specifically to prevent engagement with terrorism and violent extremism.

The research aims to enhance understanding of the need for gender-sensitive interventions that address the specific needs of women and girls. Some key themes have emerged that should be considered when designing or revising early-intervention programmes aimed at preventing and countering violent extremism (P/CVE) to account for the needs of women and girls.