The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence - What we heard

he Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence - What we heard PDF Version (1,436 KB)

Table of contents

• 1.0 Introduction
  • 1.1 Context
  • 1.2 Key themes at a glance
  • 1.3 Who did we hear from?
• 2.0 What We Heard
  • 2.1 National Strategy on Countering Radicalization to Violence
  • 2.2 Canada Centre's Role in Countering Radicalization to Violence
  • 2.3 The Community Resilience Fund
  • 2.4 Learning Materials and Resources
  • 2.5 Engagement with Stakeholders
  • 2.6 Other Comments/Feedback
• 3.0 Appendix

1.0 Introduction

1.1 Context

The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence (Canada Centre) is a part of Public Safety Canada which was launched to provide national policy leadership, support local level initiatives, and coordinate action-oriented research countering radicalization to violence. Since its inception, Canada Centre has brought together community organizations, stakeholders and experts across Canada to shape a national strategy on countering radicalization to violence. The focus is on preventing the radicalization to violence of all kinds, regardless of where it originates.

The Canada Centre has been consulting with their partners, stakeholders and the public over the past several months in order to develop the national strategy on countering radicalization to violence. They have identified a number of different priorities.

The objective of online public consultation was to hear from partners, stakeholders, and the public to help inform priorities for a national strategy on CRV and to determine how organisations across the country can work together towards a shared strategy. The consultation ran from April 5^th to May 3^rd, 2018 and garnered 715 responses to a questionnaire with a mix of questions that required a short-written answer, multiple choice and single choice questions regarding the direction, focus, funding and audiences for the Canada Centre's work on countering radicalization to violence. Multiple and single choice feedback is presented within this report as counts (number of mentions), some of which are shown as graphs, for ease of understanding. The numbers of contributions to each question within the consultation varied as some contributors only shared partially completed responses.

This report is based on the valuable feedback, ideas, opinions, and perspectives as submitted by contributors to the online public consultation. The information presented is directional in nature and as participation was on an open opt-in basis, the results should not be extrapolated to a broader audience.

The summary of the discussion presented in this report offers a thematic overview of the feedback that was submitted through the consultation process.

1.2 Key themes at a glance

Overall, contributors supported the suggested areas of focus for the Canada Centre as well as the national strategy on countering radicalization to violence. Few respondents suggested additional areas for consideration, however some stressed relevant measures for broad prevention of radicalization, or mentioned necessary ideological shifts around diversity or group identity or changes within society which they thought could be achieved through public education/awareness campaigns.

More specifically, contributors suggested that involving authorities with particular groups might not reduce the risk of violence and might even make violence more likely due to previous tensions between law enforcement and those groups.

Some recurring themes throughout the discussion of countering radicalization to violence, the national strategy, the role of the Canada Centre, funding opportunities and knowledge product development included:

• Education / Public Awareness - Educational programs that demonstrate the effect of violent and radicalized behaviours, including on the ground training within communities, were suggested as channels to promote public awareness on countering radicalization to violence.
• Connection Building - Partnership with community leaders, marginalized groups (Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ groups, minority groups), regional and federal government agencies were strongly encouraged by contributors. They felt that the Canada Centre should play a major role in coordinating a joint effort to counter radicalization to violence. It was highlighted by a few contributors that the messenger is equally as important as the message in engaging with certain communities, highlighting the need to work with community leaders and in-group influencers and to build connections between them.
• Drivers/Underlying Issues – Determining and understanding the common underlying issues causing radicalization to violence was frequently discussed. It was frequently suggested that working with mental health facilities, research institutions and law enforcement to address underlying causes of radicalization to violence through education, research and other activities.
• Youth intervention – Youth intervention and programs were underscored as important by many contributors. They felt that the younger population can develop resilience towards radicalization to violence from school programs and online platforms.
• Social Services – To assist in addressing underlying issues, contributors discussed how social services can provide opportunities, resources and support to people or groups at risk of marginalization in order to decrease probability to radicalization to violence.
• Role of the Media – While many contributors highlighted that the media can be a good channel in promoting awareness on radicalization to violence and reaching important audiences, they also discussed the media's role in disseminating false information or promoting certain ideas that can potentially lead to radicalization.

1.3 Who did we hear from?

The consultation was live from April 5^th to May 3^rd, 2018 and received responses from a wide range of Canadians, organizations and other stakeholders concerning Public Safety Canada and the Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence's national strategy on countering radicalization to violence.

As noted above, the profile of contributors is not representative of all Canadians and does not represent the perspectives of the broader general public, or all organizations or professionals. This report represents the views of interested contributors and should be considered as a directional source of feedback, priorities and ideas related to this issue.

2.0 What We Heard

2.1 National Strategy on Countering Radicalization to Violence

The online consultation presented a number of areas of potential focus for the Canada Centre in fostering national cooperation on countering radicalization to violence. Contributors were presented with definitions explaining these key themes, and were asked which they considered should be the focus for the Canada Centre. These included:

• Explaining the issue: Explain how and why radicalization to violence and violent extremism can occur, and what it looks like in Canada, including its impact on individuals and communities.
• Building relationships among key actors: Identify people and organizations with important roles in addressing radicalization to violence in Canada, along with how they can and do work together (e.g. law enforcement, health and social services, education, community-based organizations, etc.).
• Enabling local action: Demonstrate ways to raise awareness, dispel myths, and otherwise strengthen local ability to support prevention and address community concerns about hate, fear and conflict.
• Tackling prevention online: Explain how violent extremists and terrorists use the internet, along with the impact on individuals and communities, and review promising avenues for online prevention and intervention.
• Creating and sharing knowledge: Review and share key research findings on radicalization to violence relevant to Canada, with a focus on what works to prevent it and address its impacts.
• Providing leadership: Demonstrate how the Canada Centre will bring together and advance efforts across Canada; develop and share expertise; build domestic and international networks; and invest in evidence-based programming and research.

Overall, contributors supported each of these areas of focus equally with a few indicating a less strong agreement with the Canada Centre's role in providing leadership and explaining the issue.

Few contributors disagreed with these areas of focus, those who did mentioned a variety of different issues. Some stressed finding the right actors for interventions, while others felt that other areas should be priority (such as gang violence). A few expressed concerns regarding immigration policies and multiculturalism.

Figure 1 – Areas of Focus for the Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence

Q3. To what extent do you agree or disagree that the Canada Centre should focus on these areas? (Responding Contributors=715)

One of the most discussed additions was the inclusion of educational and training programs. This included education for the general public on various religions, including a focus on major religions, highlighting the positive aspects of these religions and engaging and creating understanding across religious/cultural communities. Youth engagement was also underscored by a number of contributors as a particularly important area of focus.

"There should be an added emphasis on employing educational and pedagogical strategies and resources (including teachers' education) as soft approaches to dealing with radicalization"

« Identifier les jeunes à risque et intervenir rapidement pour éviter qu'ils se radicalisent. Identifier les jeunes radicalisés et intervenir rapidement pour éviter le passage à l'acte. »

Some of the suggestions were more specific to countering radicalization to violence, focused on education, training programs/tool kits and outreach programs to minority/marginalized communities to proactively address the issue. These toolkits would also be provided to front line organizations that are already working with these populations.

"Some kind of assistance/mechanism to in-the-field, frontline community organizers who work directly with communities but do not possess the know-how to access funding for community programs that aim to prevent and counter radicalization to violence."

The role of media and misinformation in perpetuating ideas that are viewed as leading to hate speech and violence was also discussed. Gender-based violence and misogyny were also heavily discussed by contributors, especially in comments received in early-May following the vehicle attack in Toronto.

"Address the media's role in perpetuating harmful stereotypes in what they publish and what they allow in online comments. Come up with recommendations for oversight and accountability."

"As part of the strategy, there should be a clear incorporation of a gender perspective, consistent with Canada's commitment to GBA+ and Canada's National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security. As well, the Strategy should clearly explore all forms of radicalization to violence, including white supremacists and misogynist violence."

Another frequently mentioned addition was the partnership of governments (federal, provincial, territorial), NGOs addressing these issues, and religious communities (including community leaders and community members), and indigenous communities to understand what actions could bring the most impactful long-term results. While there were few suggestions regarding a formal structure of these relationships, the need for building and maintaining these partnerships was underscored throughout the feedback as a key area of focus for the national strategy and for the Canada Centre. Clear or strict laws for violent actions were also mentioned by some contributors, particularly around hate speech.

"Enabling local action is key. Without this element, all the theory learned and understood will be of no value."

"Influence legislative change to associate stronger criminal penalties for participation in any forum that promotes hateful ideologies commonly used in radicalization"

Contributors also highlighted a need to address the socio-economic causes of radicalization and a desire for the federal government to reach out to other nations and discuss their strategies for countering radicalization to violence. Mental health support and social services were also often discussed.

"From my 30 years experience as a social worker … I believe it is important to address the growing income inequity, racism and discrimination so that people have opportunities for a good life."

« J'ai l'impression qu'on a de la difficulté a faire la différence entre une personne qui fait partie d'un crime organisé qui perpétue la radicalisation menant à la violence et une personne qui s'identifierait à n'importe quoi qui stimule et répond au déséquilibre de sa santé mental. »

Others mentioned: engaging with those trying to radicalize others, the involvement of all sectors (including business and technology) on the development of a national strategy, and more stringent background checks for asylum seekers.

Explaining the issue

Contributors were supportive of the focus on explaining how and why radicalization to violence and violent extremism can occur, and what it looks like in Canada, including its impact on individuals and communities. Some key comments concerning this approach included suggestions that the Canada Centre work on building relationships with organizations and educating the public about radicalization, extremism and violence.

Most agreed that the main role of the Canada Centre should be to facilitate conversation and collaboration along all stakeholders, organizations and secular groups working to address radicalization of violence. This included providing and disseminating training/education resources to be used by the above groups, as well as providing funding and resource support. Contributors also highlighted that one focus of these resources should be to explain the perspective of others who might not have the same values as average Canadians.

"The center should be the primary facilitator of activities. They should be the lead. They need to identify local issues of the communities and focus initiatives based on the results. Youth should be the primary target"

"A focus on preventative programming is key. Radicalization requires a number of conditions to come together including youth vulnerability due to multiple barriers. Address the conditions in advance."

Participants underscored awareness and education as the underlying factors of these issues and key areas that the Canada Centre could help improve. Contributors underscored that this education should also take a proactive, positive approach addressing the root causes of radicalization including social determinants, and preventative measures that can be taken. However, some said that a lot of this information is already available and the focus should be on other areas such as enabling local action, building relationships or tackling prevention online.

« Il faut éviter les programmes d'information à n'en pas finir. Nous avons déjà beaucoup d'information sur le sujet. Le Centre devrait prioriser les actions concrètes visant la prévention auprès de la clientèle cible, c'est à dire ceux et celles susceptibles d'être radicalisés. »

A few other suggestions included: monitoring and reporting on radicalization activity, and using research to promote stricter rules and enforcement.

Contributors also highlighted key audiences the Canada Centre should make the focus of its educational and programming on explaining how and why radicalization to violence can occur. These key audiences often fell into 4 broad categories where information and knowledge sharing would assist in reducing stigma, discrimination, and potential radicalization.

• The General Public
• Youth
• Government Agencies - including CSIS, the RCMP, other intelligence agencies and the local police force
• Minority/Immigrant Communities – including their leaders, and community members

There were various ways presented to address these audiences including through schools/universities, community centres, social media, families/parents/guardians, and social services. Some also highlighted a need for this audience to be particularly focused on young people in marginalized or minority communities. Other suggested audiences included academics, Indigenous communities, and minority communities who are at risk for radicalization.

Building relationships among key actors

The identification of people and organizations with important roles in addressing radicalization to violence in Canada, along with how they can and do work together (e.g. law enforcement, health and social services, education, community-based organizations, etc.) was also viewed as an important focus of the Canada Centre. This was most important to respondents who identified as professionals and organisations with more than 75% of their time/resources devoted to countering radicalization to violence.

In discussing ways to work with and support key actors in dealing with countering radicalization to violence, contributors were especially interested in the identification and facilitation of meetings and collaboration among key stakeholders. This included building connections among leaders from a variety of ethnic communities, government, and front-line staff, those who are already working in the communities to address radicalization to violence and its impacts on communities. Many suggested that key actors had already been identified by people currently working on countering radicalization to violence and the focus of the Canada Centre should be on building connections and coordination of efforts between these groups.

"I believe that individual organizations are trying to address radicalization to violence but this is being done in silo's. I believe that individual provinces and communities can do a better job of coordinating their efforts to avoid overlap and to ensure any gaps that are identified are addressed. The Canada Centre could assist with the coordination and provide a broader perspective to individual provinces. (best practices, research, trends, etc…)"

Some suggested creating centres, like community centres, across the country, where people could come to learn about diverse groups, receive help dealing with conflict, and get connected to services that might help with the causes of radicalization to violence. Participants also suggested providing online materials and resources that could be accessed and used by local community organizations, as well as providing funding and resources to allow for collaboration between formal and informal organizations at the local level. While some welcomed the Canada Centre's input locally, others felt the conversations were better driven by those more closely acquainted with the local context of their communities.

"Create a resource catalogue for groups to use that contains materials available from the Canada Centre and the groups themselves. This would also serve as a guide to the different groups, and if contact information were included then this would promote the building of networks."

"It should try to support the inclusion of credible local voices and actors to address violence more comprehensively and holistically to ensure diversity and diversify potential activities and remedies. Note that the Canada Centre should not be directly involved in any such activities, but rather provide resources to assist non-state, local actors, groups, and/or mechanisms to work with non-traditional voices, e.g. Black Lives Matter, anti-poverty activists, who know their communities, deal with a range of issues, and have credibility to reach youth, including youth who are wary of mainstream actors."

Lack of resources including money to deal with the underlying causes of radicalization to violence were seen as an important problem that the Canada Centre could help solve.

"Awareness within the community already exists and work is underway. Resources to do the necessary work are diminishing as there is inadequate funding to do prevention work at a grassroots level. The community is increasingly largely responding to crisis due to inadequate resources and funding. Collaboration across organizations and networks is happening effectively however, this does not address the lack of adequate resources. Additionally, we are seeing increasing despair due to poverty. The face of poverty is deepening for people living on social assistance benefits and the breadth of poverty is spreading to more and more working individuals and families as the cost of living rises not in accordance to income."

There was also some discussion about the benefits and potential challenges of including law enforcement in the Canada Centre's programming. Some respondents favoured greater involvement of the police, in both security and community outreach capacities, or suggested involving the military in a security capacity, others cautioned their involvement due to existing tensions between some marginalized communities and law enforcement. Some contributors said that it was important to get appropriate actors involved based on the communities that individual programs were meant to target, for example by involving people from within the community rather than outside.

"Policing forces tend to have antagonizing effects on marginalized groups, even if well-intended. Past traumas with policing agencies tend to foster distrust."

"Law enforcement should only be included in community support capacities, and not as actors to deal with related issues. Law enforcement should serve communities in a CVE context, not be presented or seen as enforcement of CVE."

Enabling local action

Another theme of discussion among contributors was a focus on local action and demonstrating ways to raise awareness, dispel myths, and otherwise strengthen local ability to support prevention and address community concerns about hate, fear and conflict.

Some contributors suggested that the Canada Centre provide direct funding to grassroot organizations, local charities, NGOs and mental health facilities as they felt community leaders often understand the challenges that their community members face. This funding could be used to develop awareness campaigns, community outreach programs and support groups for marginalized communities.

« Fournir des ressources, outils et financement aux agences communuataire en region qui pourrons gerer ces programmes aux continus. »

"Provide funding support for key actors to lead community initiatives (not just workshops but other kinds of experiential learning opportunities) that can help people understand and engage their communities and build inter-community engagement with those who may have sharp differences in beliefs from them."

Other contributors suggested the Canada Centre use television programs and movies to disseminate information about countering radicalization to violence within communities. Community-based film production on countering radicalization to violence was thought to be able to reach different age groups in communities, particularly the younger and the elder audiences.

"Fund fictional movies and a TV show series set in Canada that clearly shows how to deal with issues relating to hate, fear and conflict within communities. Most people are visual learners and people tend to like movies and TV shows filmed where they live."

"commercials, publications, public media, financial support the work being done to combat hate, fear mongering and conflict through local projects. Support projects that may be contests for creating videos that raise awareness for youth or young film students."

Another suggestion made by contributors was sharing research findings on explanations of radicalization with local communities and regional government agencies to enable local action. They viewed this information as the key to understand and address violent behaviours. New research on causes of radicalization to violence could be translated and distributed to community members to prevent radicalized behaviours.

"Provide the new information to the communities in ways that are accessible to them. Not just online but through inter-personal interaction that offers practical support to community members to interpret the new information and use it effectively for raising awareness."

"Bidirectionally share findings on underlying causes and effects of hate, fear and conflict with community organizations and local governments. Provide funding where there is demonstrable progress toward addressing underlying causes through education, research, and activities."

Tackling prevention online

Contributors commented on understanding how violent extremists and terrorists use the internet, along with the impact of that internet use on individuals and communities. They felt the Canada Centre should review promising avenues for online prevention and intervention.

Most contributors who commented on this subject agreed that the internet is the primary source for radicalized groups to approach the public, especially the youth. The majority of the contributors welcomed the idea of working with social media platforms and technology companies to regulate online content, while some contributors said regulation of online content would violate Canadian values and freedom of speech. They suggest that the Canada Centre should provide information and guidelines for the public to receive information through trusted sources.

"Don't block these contents, they will resurface again, and volunrable youth will always find ways to access them. However, offer alternative narrative to these radical extremist contents. Ex. Presenting the actual interpretation of a religious text used by violent extremist groups to justify their cause or action. Give youth and moderate religious leaders media space to present the counter violent extremist argument. Vulnerable individuals to radicalization leading violence tend to look for legitimacy and justification from a religious and ideological figure. If we can't offer that, then they are left to listen and view those of radical extremist "role models"."

« Developper des lois pour controler l'affichage en ligne, utiliser les ressources du gouvernement pour monitirer plus les activites en ligne, developper des programmes de sensibilisation aupres du grand public sur les risques d'utilisation et les consequences possible, en s'assurant de rejoindre le secteur jeunesse en particulier. »

Many contributors raised regulation and monitoring of online content, which they viewed as key to preventing people from engaging in radicalized violent behaviours. Some suggested that the Canada Centre could partner with social media platforms and technology companies (e.g. Twitter, Facebook, Google, etc.) to monitor online content and restrict certain websites that contain radical content. Other contributors oppose surveillance and restriction of online content but they think the Canada Centre should provide social media platforms and technology companies guidelines and protocols for what to do in response to attempts at radicalization on their platforms.

"… In saying this, I think monitoring those who are pushing racism, misogynistic & homophobic views within the confines of the law of course. I also believe that working with social media companies to produce strong terms of service would help, you would need a continuous relationship as seen with the rise of the Alt-Right & ISIS they change the vernacular to try and hide their intent."

"Hold service providers accountable for hate speech hosted on their services. Work with both researchers and service providers to improve tools for identification. Identify false positives that result in shutting down anti-extremist rhetoric. Maintain a registry of identities of persons or groups that are subjects of complaints of workplace or family violence -- and any other activities strongly correlated with extremist speech and action. Share this information among organizations responsible for identifying and responding to terrorist activity."

Many contributors think that the lack of legal framework on regulating hate speech online contributes to the spreading of radicalized violence. They support harsher criminal penalties for participation in the dissemination of radicalized content and promoting violent behaviours.

"Lobby for and promote stronger laws around hate speech and introduce stronger consequences for platforms that allow it to be posted on their sites."

"Provide incentives and penalties for the major actors (Google, Facebook, Twitter...) to reduce extreme content. Regulate their terms of service to impose minimum standards and establish an appeal mechanism for when the major actors refuse to accept justified complaints."

While some contributors advocated for a legislative approach to countering radicalization to violence, other contributors preferred an outreach strategy to reduce radicalized information on social media and other relevant sites. It was also suggested that the Canada Centre could establish an awareness campaign, counter-radicalization programs and educational workshops to build digital resilience towards radicalization to violence.

"Raise awareness of radicalization by exposing tactics used by extremists, so that people can recognize when they (or people close to them) are being manipulated. Avoid generic or broad messaging. Advocate for increased investigative tools to be available for public safety agencies to monitor extremists online and interdict terrorists."

Creating and sharing knowledge

Most contributors suggested that the Canada Centre should share key research findings on radicalization to violence relevant to Canada, with a focus on what works to prevent it and address its impacts. Multimedia (infographics, pamphlet, videos, PSA, etc.) and online platforms are the two channels that most contributors thought would work the best to disseminate expert knowledge for the general public. Others believe that educational institutions, community agencies, and the media should also be participating in educational activities relevant to countering radicalization to violence.

"Building an online portal accessible to anybody anywhere in Canada that has information that is nationally relevant as well as specific to their localities that (a) clears up misconceptions, (b) provides reliable information of current trends and resources for support (esp. with regard to people's fears related to reporting concerns leading to overreaction by law enforcement), and (c) provides educational resources through literature and videos that can be used by communities to raise awareness of issues."

"Key audiences it should be trying to inform should include religious leaders, educators, chaplains, social workers, athletic coaches, anybody who educates young people--not the young people themselves. Government rarely (if ever) succeeds in speaking to young people at-risk of radicalization directly through official methods because when such youth have their risk factors increase, part of what informs their mindset in that phase of their radicalization is anti-statism and a tendency to be anti-authority/to be anarchistic The best strategy is to prioritize reaching community-based educators and those who serve youth at-risk of radicalization to violence, especially in suburbs where there is a lack of community life and greater risk of isolation"

Many suggested that the Canada Centre should play a role in informing the public with the latest developments and trends on countering radicalization to violence. Some contributors suggested distilling academic research into online infographics and videos that can be widely distributed on social media. Contributors suggested infographics and videos would have a link to the academic research they were based on for viewers to click on if they wanted to find more information on countering radicalization to violence. Others suggested delivering multi-lingual booklets and pamphlets through mailing services to people who do not have access to online information.

"Using informal languages, distributing booklets, videos, advertisements, going to schools to talk and teach youth. Focus on people between 20-45 years old"

"Create a centralized online hub for the best educational materials and support the publication and distribution of materials. Key audiences include educators, health and mental health officials, community groups, newcomer groups, and law enforcement."

Universities and other research institutions can become the key actors to conduct research and inform the public on countering radicalization to violence. Some contributors believe that universities and research facilities have the capacity to mobilize the public to promote awareness on countering radicalization to violence.

"Expert knowledge in the form of reports and studies should be shared as-is but also easy-to-digest infographics and videos should also be produced that are easy to share on social media and via instant messaging applications like WhatsApp and Telegram"

Providing leadership

Most contributors said that the Canada Centre can bring together and advance efforts across Canada through various activities including developing and sharing expertise, building domestic and international networks, and investing in evidence-based programming and research. The contributors suggested that the Canada Centre provide transparency about its goals and actions in the process of countering radicalization to violence.

"By not profiling anyone and providing open and transparent advice that applies to a variety of situations. Focusing on specific communities rather than individuals who are more likely to be excluded is how you end up missing people who are being radicalized: because they're out of your field of vision."

« Engager les communautés locales dans des consultations authentiques soyez à l'écoute et mettez en place leurs recommandations. Montrez de la transparence. »

Many answered that the Canada Centre should take the lead on gathering information on and providing support for marginalized groups including Indigenous people, LGBTQ+ groups, immigrants and visible minorities as they could be affected by radicalization and internet threats. Some also suggested that the Canada Centre partner with local agencies to ensure the distribution of resources in the region and evaluate their impacts on marginalized groups.

"By supporting and amplifying the leadership that at-risk groups have been demonstrating. Listen to the people who are most affected by radicalization, internet harassment and threats, and scapegoating. Women/feminists have been trying to tell us about these dangers. Black/indigenous/people of colour have been sounding the alarm. LGBT people, disabled people, and immigrants (especially those from Muslim countries) have been working to keep their people safe and no one seems to care until it affects someone close to them/happens in their neighbourhood."

« Former autant de partenarias que possible en region pour assurer une distribution des resources developpee et leurs utilisations en region, faire du monitoring en region pour mesurer les impactes des programmes et activites et transmettre les meilleurs pratique au sein des reseaux. »

Community leaders are believed to be the key actors in countering radicalization to violence. Community leaders have credibility within local communities to address members in a way that they are more likely to be responsive to their ideas. Some respondents felt that rather than focusing directly on addressing communities the Canada Centre could facilitate workshops, conferences and training programs within communities to promote awareness of radicalization to violence.

"Fund and build capacity among those who are best placed to address risk at the local level. Funding should be long-term and promote sustainability in order to ensure positive program impacts. Furthermore, promote networking and the exchange of good practices among local actors (e.g., through workshops, conferences and facilitating direct introductions)"

2.2 Canada Centre's Role in Countering Radicalization to Violence

Contributors were presented with a list of community engagement programs or initiatives that could be undertaken by the Canada Centre. These included:

• Building relationships and trust with organizations: supporting trust and building confidence with organizations such as law enforcement, and health and social services, before and after incidents of radicalization to violence and violent extremism
• Raising awareness about radicalization to violence
• Sharing information and resources: provide timely, relevant information to help answer questions, guide to services, and address misconceptions and concerns. This includes support for health and social services resources (e.g. counseling, family support, and treatment for trauma and mental health issues)
• Supporting local prevention efforts: support local efforts to identify available resources, build capacity, and connect partners and services to support communities
• Connecting Canadians to work together: engage groups and communities affected by radicalization to violence and violent extremism to better understand their experiences, and support local needs and capabilities
• Providing training to better deal with radicalization to violence

Overall each of these elements were seen as important components of the Canada Centre's role, with the most support received for sharing information and supporting local prevention efforts.

Figure 2 – Importance of Canada Centre Engaging with Communities

Q2a. How important is it that the Canada Centre focus on each of the following when engaging with communities? (Total responding contributors=715)

Contributors more familiar with the Canada Centre and countering radicalization to violence were more likely to place a high level of importance across all potential engagement activities.

Some contributors suggested intersectional approaches that included an understanding of identities that make up communities.

"Important to support Canadian Muslim individuals and organizations as well as peoples impacted by far-right radicalization to violence, especially Indigenous, Black, and Jewish communities".

Education and community outreach was also suggested as a way to engage communities, build awareness and combat racism. Some contributors suggested sharing more individual success stories and other information.

"Prevention and raising awareness of the issue of violent extremists should be key area of focus."

"Identify community builders in each community and support their efforts"

A few contributors also suggested more specific feedback for countering radicalization to violence with a focus on measures to prevent or supress violence. Contributors suggested mechanisms for building trust with those at-risk and reaching out to radicalized individuals.

"Make yourself better known- I didn't know you exist and I have a keen interest in Youth & what leads to their vulnerabilities & marginalization/resentment/radicalization. While focussing on educating Leaders, service providers who work with youth, also ensure better controls on Media (e.g. Rebel) and social media (Facebook & Twitter) & their hate inciting communications.”

"In addition to preventing radicalization to violence, there needs to be a framework for dealing with it once it happens. How do we treat those who commit violent acts (e.g. the driver of the van that killed 10 people in Toronto earlier this week)? What legal framework is there to deal with online threats (The current one of police shrugging and telling people to ignore comments doesn't work)? While prevention is important, it won't end overnight. We need support for victims of violence and avenues for deradicalizing perpetrators.”

2.3 The Community Resilience Fund

The Canada Centre has a grants and contribution program, known as the Community Resilience Fund, which provides funding to organizations and individuals who are working to prevent radicalization to violence and its impacts.

Prioritization of Funding

Contributors were asked to allocate percentages of funding (up to 100%) across different proposed funding areas within the Community Resilience Fund.

On average, developing youth resilience to violent extremism online was the top priority across contributors, followed by information and resources to raise awareness, and training and capacity-building for those working with the public. Events aimed at bringing key actors and experts together, resources for family and peers and tools to measure effectiveness were lower priorities for many contributors.

Figure 3 – Mean contributor allocation of funding by subject area (including 0)

Q4 - Which of the following areas do you think the Canada Centre should support, and to what degree? (Total Responding Contributors=715)

Overall, the majority of contributors distributed their allocation fairly evenly across the 10 areas, with some placing a slightly greater emphasis on certain categories. For instance, many traded-off elements such as tools to measure effectiveness, events for bringing together key actors and resources for families and peers, for increased funding in developing youth resilience, training and capacity-building for those on the ground and interventions for those at risk.

A number of contributors also placed a higher emphasis on information and resources to raise awareness about radicalization to violence. A few contributors also indicated 75% or greater support for categories such as raising awareness, developing youth resilience, resources and training.

While the average allocation highlights some key areas, looking at the breakdown of the amount allocated to each suggested subject area garners a different perspective. The chart below highlights the variation of importance placed on different subject areas by participant, with a larger number of contributors allocating more of the available resources to information and resources to raise awareness, developing youth resilience, and training and capacity building.

Q4 - Which of the following areas do you think the Canada Centre should support, and to what degree? (Total Responding Contributors=715)

Funding Criteria

Overall, contributors were more likely to identify an assessment of needs and risks as the top criteria for making funding decisions, followed by public priorities and investment in understanding. Organisations placed a greater emphasis on needs and risk-based assessments than individuals and professionals, while individuals and professionals placed a greater emphasis on understanding and research related to which approaches to preventing radicalization to violence made sense within the Canadian context.

Geographic-equity and funding for current programs were less important overall, however some organisations and professionals were more likely to indicate starting new programs as a priority.

Q5 - When the Canda Centre is making decisions on which organizations to fund, which three factors do you think are the most important considerations? (Total Responding contributors=715)

Those contributors who highlighted geographic equity as a top three criteria for funding decisions on average placed a higher allocation on raising awareness of the issue. Similarly, those who selected understanding allocated on average a higher percentage of funding to evidence about what works and research on ways that they radicalize.

Those interested in funding new programs, were more likely to place emphasis in allocating funds to active prevention and interventions, such as developing youth resilience to violent extremism online, responding to violent extremist and terrorist messaging and interventions for individuals that may be at risk of radicalizing to violence.

Contributors also suggested additional funding criteria for the Community Resilience Fund. Some suggested that it should be community-focused, where funding can be prioritized by the community. A community-specific approach was also suggested, which included consulting specific communities directly to find out what issues are important to them.

"Consult communities directly to bring key actors representing key Canadian Muslim organizations together to discuss funding prioritization *before* setting funding priorities. Be open and responsive to re-prioritizing funding based on feedback given from key actors."

"Spending more time on the ground dealing with the issues and communities and less time-sharing research sharing of the practical "what worked for us" (urban and rural approaches to deal with the issues)"

Contributors also suggested that funding should be available for service providers and to provincial agencies that deliver the programs.

"Focus resources on developing capacity in provincial/territorial agencies who will be delivering counter-radicalization programming through existing structures, and those who can help identify radicalizing individuals. Peer-reviewed research into effective interventions should also be funded well, in order to shape evolving future efforts."

Evidenced-based approaches were also suggested, indicating that funding should be given to those methods and organizations that have a past history of success.

"I think that evidence is extremely important when developing a radicalization to violence strategy specific to Canada. Lessons learned from other countries should obviously be considered, but once developed this strategy must be relatable to Canadians. The initial strategy should take a broader approach to start, building capacity within the various regions/ organizations. Once capacity has been built funding could be redirected towards more specific issues should the evidence support such a change."

A common theme throughout was a focus on communities and youth. A few contributors stressed that funding that is provided by the Canada Centre should prioritize youth and marginalized communities.

"Money should focus on the communities themselves, resources, youth resilience. Additional centers available across the country"

"Support local communities, it has shown proven that it works in other parts of the world it will work here too"

2.4 Learning Materials and Resources

Effective ways to counteri radicalization to violence and the role of the media/journalism in radicalization to violence and prevention were the top selected question areas for the Canada Centre to explore. This in part mirrors the top priority funding area of producing evidence of effective measures to counter radicalization to violence.

The role of the media and the contribution of the internet were higher concerns among contributors who do not engage with countering radicalization to violence in their daily work. Among organisations, tools or training for front-line workers and signs that individuals or groups may be radicalizing to violence were within the top three priority areas for resources, in addition to effective programs. Professional contributors were also more likely to place tools or training for front-line workers in their top three requested materials.

Q6a. Which three of the following questions do you think are the most important for Canada Centre to explore? (Total responding contributors=715)

Comments related to the type of research, materials and information that the Canada Centre could provide to the public as well as those working in the sector included further questions about how radicalization to violence happens.

"How do cynicism and apathy play into radicalization? How can the discussion be broadened to include these factors?"

"Research is important but there has already been exhaustive recent research conducted on several of the questions mentioned above (e.g. TSAS research projects). What's missing are solutions and tools based on research to address the issues in local communities across Canada."

A few contributors also felt the focus should remain on existing initiatives rather than reproducing materials and reconfirming existing research.

"I don't, however I do feel that a lot of information and research already exists on this topic, and I would like to see this Centre focus on supporting initiatives that already exist."

2.5 Engagement with Stakeholders

Overall many contributors felt that all or a majority of the suggested key actors should be involved in countering radicalization to violence. Groups focusing on gender (e.g. organizations led by women, and/or focusing on issues such as gender equality, and empowerment for women and girls) and public health professionals (e.g. community well-being) tended to be the groups that contributors suggested be excluded. Arts organisations, academics, human rights organizations, celebrities and other experts were additional suggestions put forward by contributors.

Q7. Which sectors do you think should be involved in countering radicalization to violence within communities? (Total responding contributors=715)

2.6 Other Comments/Feedback

Contributors were also given the opportunity to provide additional feedback or input into the Canada Centre's focus and the national strategy on countering radicalization to violence. While most choose not to include additional comments, some took the time to underscore their appreciation for this initiative or position at earlier questions and identify key areas of focus.

Some discussed issues surrounding different cultural identities and vulnerable groups, including the impacts of racism and prejudice inciting violence towards these individuals. Others focused on education of the public as well as government leaders and employees on countering radicalization to violence.

Some additional suggestions received not thoroughly discussed above included a global perspective on the issue and suggestions for a follow-up once the Canada Centre's strategy is developed. Informed decision making was also highlighted, with a few identifying additional needs to examine the root causes of radicalization and to reflect on Canada's future.

A small number of contributors also expressed concern regarding the role the media and misinformation plays in fostering environments where radicalization is possible.

3.0 Appendix

3.1 English Questionnaire

Call to Participate

The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence (Canada Centre) provides national leadership on Canada's efforts to prevent radicalization to violence. The Canada Centre is seeking feedback from partners, stakeholders, and the public to help inform priorities for a national strategy on countering radicalization to violence.

Participate Now!

Radicalization to violence occurs when a person or group takes on extreme ideas and begins to think they should use violence to support their beliefs. People can radicalize to violence for different reasons and it is not unique to any particular religion, culture or background.

In Canada, the rate of people becoming radicalized to violence is relatively low when compared to other countries, but even one act of violence can result in significant harm.

The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence (the Canada Centre) leads Canada's work to address this important issue. We work with groups across Canada and around the world to offer advice, research and funding to address and help prevent radicalization to violence and its harmful impacts to our communities.

Online Public Consultation

The Canada Centre is developing a national strategy that will help identify priorities that the Government of Canada will use to address radicalization to violence. They are looking for input from Canadians on what should be included within these priorities.

Past research has shown that the best solutions on this issue often come directly from individuals on the frontline – like volunteers, activists, professionals, youth, peers, and family members – that can offer advice and solutions based on their local realities. To help shape Canada's approach, the Canada Centre has launched an online public consultation to get Canadians' views on the issue.

Your input will help shape Canada's approach in a number of different ways, including:

• How local communities and frontline actors can participate in addressing radicalization to violence and its harmful impacts;
• Where funding and other resources can be directed in order to get the best results; and
• The role that the Canada Centre can play in increasing public knowledge about countering radicalization to violence.

All Canadians are encouraged to share their views through the online consultation portal. Submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, April 25^th, 2018.

Demographics

The demographic information we gather for analyzing feedback will never identify individual people.

The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence is committed to an open, transparent and inclusive process for the consultation. We would very much appreciate you taking a few minutes to tell us a bit about yourself. These questions are optional and demographic information will not be linked to your submission. However, answering will allow us to better understand the range of Canadian perspectives contributing to this consultation.

DEM01A

Do you live in Canada?

• Yes
• No

DEM01B

• What are the first 3 digits of your postal code?

DEM02

What is your age?

• Under 18
• 18 to 24 years
• 25 to 34 years
• 35 to 44 years
• 45 to 54 years
• 55 and over
• Prefer not to answer

DEM03

With what gender do you identify?

• Male
• Female
• Other
• Prefer not to answer

DEM04a

Please choose what best describes you. Are you giving us your feedback:

• On behalf of an organization?
• As a professional or volunteer whose work involves countering radicalization to violence or closely related activities (violence prevention, conflict resolution, internet safety, etc.)?
• As someone who cares about countering radicalization to violence for you, your family, or friends?
• I prefer not to disclose

DEM04b_PRO

[IF PROFESSIONAL AT DEM04a]

What percentage of your work involves efforts to address radicalization to violence?

• 100%
• 75%-99%
• 50%-74%
• 25%-49%
• 1-24%
• None

DEM04b_ORG

[IF ORGANIZATION AT DEM04a]

What percentage of resources does your organization spend on efforts to address radicalization to violence?

• 100%
• 75%-99%
• 50%-74%
• 25%-49%
• 1-24%
• None

DEM05

[IF INDIVIDUAL AT DEMO4a]

Check any of the following statements that apply to you:

• I am the parent or guardian of a child under 16 years of age.
• I am an Indigenous person, that is, First Nations, Métis or Inuk (Inuit).
• I am a member of a visible minority, by virtue of race or colour.
• I am a recent immigrant to Canada (past 5 years).
• I prefer not to disclose.

DEM06

Canadians come from all over the world, and have all types of backgrounds. Which ethnic community do you identify with?

• European (British Isles, French, Dutch, German, Russian, Ukrainian, etc.)
• Indigenous
• Caribbean
• Latin, Central and South American
• African
• Arab
• West Asian (e.g. Afghan, Armenian, Iranian, Israeli, Turkish, etc.)
• South Asian (e.g. Indian, Pakistani, Punjabi, Sri Lankan, Tamil, etc.)
• Chinese
• Filipino
• Other East and Southeast Asian (e.g. Vietnamese, Korean, Japanese, etc.)
• Oceania (e.g. Australian, Pacific Islands, etc.)
• Other (specify)
• Don't know/prefer not to respond

DEM07

What is this your religion?

• Buddhist
• Christian
• Hindu
• Jewish
• Muslim
• Sikh
• Traditional (Aboriginal) Spirituality
• Other religions
• No religious affiliation (i.e. Agnostic, Atheist, Humanist, No religion etc.)
• Prefer not to disclose

DEM08

What is the highest level of education you have received?

• Primary school or less
• Some high school
• Graduated high school
• Some college/CEGEP/Trade School
• Graduated from college/CEGEP/Trade School
• Some university, but did not finish
• University undergraduate degree
• University graduate degree

Main Questionnaire

Q1

How familiar are you with the Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence (the Canada Centre)'s role and activities?

• Very familiar
• Somewhat familiar
• Not very familiar
• Not at all familiar
• Don't know

INFO1

The Canada Centre for Community Engagement and Prevention of Violence (Canada Centre) provides national leadership on Canada's efforts to prevent radicalization to violence. We work with groups across Canada and around the world to offer advice, research and funding to address and help prevent radicalization to violence and its harmful impacts on our communities.

[LINK TO LIGHTBOX WITH DEFINITION "Radicalization to violence"]

Radicalization to violence occurs when a person or group takes on extreme ideas and begins to think they should use violence to support their beliefs. People can radicalize to violence for different reasons and it is not unique to any particular religion, culture or background.

[LINK TO LIGHTBOX WITH DEFINITION "key actors / stakeholders"]

A number of different organizations, individuals and groups are involved in countering radicalization to violence, such as health professionals, social service providers, teachers, schools, government, law enforcement, the media and other associations, groups and organizations working with affected audiences.

National Strategy

INFO2

The Canada Centre is developing a plan that will identify the Government of Canada's priorities to address radicalization to violence across Canada.

Q3

To what extent do you agree or disagree that the Canada Centre should focus on these areas?

• Explaining the issue: Explain how and why radicalization to violence and violent extremism can occur, and what it looks like in Canada, including its impact on individuals and communities.
• Building relationships among key actors [LIGHTBOX LINK]: Identify people and organizations with important roles in addressing radicalization to violence in Canada, along with how they can and do work together (e.g. law enforcement, health and social services, education, community-based organizations, etc.).
• Enabling local action: Demonstrate ways to raise awareness, dispel myths, and otherwise strengthen local ability to support prevention and address community concerns about hate, fear and conflict.
• Tackling prevention online: Explain how violent extremists and terrorists use of the internet, along with the impact on individuals and communities, and review promising avenues for online prevention and intervention.
• Creating and sharing knowledge: Review and share key research findings on radicalization to violence relevant to Canada, with a focus on what works to prevent it and address its impacts.
• Providing leadership: Demonstrate how the Canada Centre will bring together and advance efforts across Canada; develop and share expertise; build domestic and international networks; and invest in evidence-based programming and research.

• Strongly agree
• Somewhat agree
• Somewhat disagree
• Strongly disagree
• No opinion

Q3_Others

Is there anything missing that should be included in a national strategy on countering radicalization to violence?

Q3_Explanation

What role would you like to see the Canada Centre play in explaining the causes of radicalization to violence and its impacts on communities? What key audiences should it be trying to reach?

No comment

Q3_Workingwithyou

How can the Canada Centre identify, work with, and support key actors to deal with radicalization to violence and its impacts?

No comment

Q3_Inyourcommunity

What steps can the Canada Centre undertake to help strengthen local ability to raise awareness and deal with issues relating to hate, fear and conflict within communities?

No comment

Q3_ProvidingSupport

The Canada Centre proposes supporting local activities through sharing expertise, introducing key actors to one another, and providing funding to individuals and organizations.

How else can the Canada Centre support local activities?

No comment

Q3_Online

How can the Canada Centre best prevent the internet from being misused by violent extremists and terrorists, as well as reduce the harmful impacts of violent extremist online content?

No comment

Q3_Sharinginformation

What steps can the Canada Centre take to make expert knowledge easily accessible for the general public? What key audiences should it be trying to inform?

No comment

Q3_ProvidngLeadership

How can the Canada Centre best provide leadership on countering radicalization to violence in Canada?

No comment

Canada Centre's Role

INFO3

The following are some suggested areas of focus for the Canada Centre when engaging with individuals, groups, and communities across the country that reflect Canada's diversity in gender, ethno-cultural background, faith, age, and sexual orientation, among others.

Q2a

How important is it that the Canada Centre focus on each of the following when engaging with communities?

• Building relationships and trust with organizations: supporting trust and building confidence with organizations such as law enforcement, and health and social services, before and after incidents of radicalization to violence and violent extremism
• Raising awareness about radicalization to violence
• Sharing information and resources: provide timely, relevant information to help answer questions, guide to services, and address misconceptions and concerns. This includes support for health and social services resources (e.g. counseling, family support, and treatment for trauma and mental health issues)
• Supporting local prevention efforts: support local efforts to identify available resources, build capacity, and connect partners and services to support communities
• Connecting Canadians to work together: engage groups and communities affected by radicalization to violence and violent extremism to better understand their experiences, and support local needs and capabilities
• Providing training to better deal with radicalization to violence

• Very important
• Somewhat important
• Not very important
• Not at all important
• No opinion

Q2b

Do you have any comments or suggestions regarding areas that the Canada Centre should focus on in supporting and engaging with individuals, groups, and communities affected by violent extremism?

Funding

Q4

The Canada Centre has a grants and contribution program, known as the Community Resilience Fund, which provides funding to organizations and individuals who are working to prevent radicalization to violence and its impacts.

Which of the following areas do you think the Canada Centre should support, and to what degree?

Please indicate below the percentage of budget (from 0 to 100) you feel should be given to each area.

• Information and resources to raise awareness about the issue
• Research that shows the different ways individuals and groups may radicalize to violence
• Evidence about what works and what is promising to counter radicalization to violence
• Tools to measure the effectiveness of intervention and prevention efforts
• Developing youth resilience to violent extremism online
• Responses to violent extremist and terrorist messaging, such as education, technological solutions, and sharing messages that challenge violent extremist messaging
• Interventions for individuals that may be at risk of radicalizing to violence
• Resources for families and peers
• Events aimed at bringing key actors and experts together to share lessons in programming and/or research
• Training and capacity-building for those working with the public, such as health and social services, and law enforcement

Q4b

Do you have any other suggestions or comments to help the Canada Centre prioritize funding through the Community Resilience Fund?

Q5

When the Canada Centre is making decisions on which organizations to fund, which three factors do you think are the most important considerations?

• Geographic-equity - Equal distribution of funding across Canada
• Needs and risks - Investments in areas based on community needs, as well as existing programs and resources
• Understanding – Investments in research and measurement of which approaches work well for the Canadian context
• Expanding current programs - Investing to further develop programs aimed at countering radicalization to violence and its impacts
• Starting new programs - Helping new partners, groups, and communities create new initiatives
• Public priorities – Making sure local voices and partner organizations inform funding priorities
• Other (please specify)

Knowledge Products

Q6a

The Canada Centre will also be developing some learning resources and materials to inform Canadians about countering radicalization to violence.

Which three of the following questions do you think are the most important for Canada Centre to explore?

• Why do some people or groups radicalize to violence?
• What are the signs that individuals or groups may be radicalizing to violence?
• How can processes of radicalization to violence differ? For example, what are similarities and differences across age, gender, violent extremist group, and roles in such a group?
• How does the Internet contribute to radicalization to violence and its impacts?
• What factors help or encourage collaboration and trust between community members and law enforcement in addressing radicalization to violence?
• What types of programs and initiatives are effective in countering radicalization to violence?
• What tools or training exist for front-line workers in addressing radicalization to violence?
• What is the role of media and journalism in relation to radicalization to violence and in prevention?

Q6b

Are there any other topics that you think the Canada Centre should share with Canadians regarding countering radicalization to violence?

Engagement

Q7

Which sectors do you think should be involved in countering radicalization to violence within communities?

• Community-based organizations (i.e. local organizations)
• Ethno-cultural organizations (i.e. ethnic or cultural community associations and/or organizations)
• Faith-based organizations (i.e. religious-based organizations)
• Youth-oriented organizations
• Groups focusing on gender (e.g. organizations led by women, and/or focusing on issues such as gender equality, and empowerment for women and girls)
• Public health professionals (e.g. community well-being)
• Health professionals (e.g. mental health, nursing)
• Social service professionals (e.g. family services, child care)
• Teachers and other education professionals
• Schools/Colleges/Universities
• Government (e.g. municipal, provincial/territorial)
• Law enforcement
• Journalists/the Media
• Families
• Other (please specify)
• All of the above

Final Questions

QFinal.

Do you have any further comments or suggestions regarding the development of the Canada Centre's National Strategy to counter radicalization to violence?

No Comment

Evaluation

Eval1

Please answer each of the following:

• Was the purpose of this consultation clear?
• Did this consultation give you an adequate opportunity to provide feedback on the National Strategy to Countering Radicalization to Violence?
• Were the instructions to participate in this consultation clear?
• Were the materials presented to inform your participation in this consultation helpful?
• Were you able to provide all your comments within the consultation period?

Response items:

• Yes
• No
• Don't know

Date modified:

2024-05-03