General conclusion

Abstract

Going back to the central question posed in the general introduction to this volume, rooted in our meso-level approach to the prevention and countering of violent extremism (P/CVE): How do various community leaders contribute to the rise and persistence of violent extremist discourses and behaviours or, inversely, to the strengthening of resilience against violent extremism? In this concluding chapter, we offer a few brief responses in light of the complex findings from seven countries in the Western Balkans and MENA, by addressing the cumulative roots and patterns of violent extremism and the multi-agency (f)actors of resilience, and problematising the concept of resilience at the interface of state, religious, and civil society spheres. We end with a few implications for P/CVE policy and practice.