Countering Violent Extremism and Radicalization in Kosovo: International, State and Societal Responses and their Consequences

Countering terrorism and preventing radicalization and violent extremism have taken center stage in donors’ and governmental policy agendas in the region more broadly and in Kosovo in particular. International donors, national governments and civil societies in the Western Balkans increasingly emphasise the risk of youth radicalization and at the same time they are seeking new strategies for counter-radicalization that would prevent the young from slipping into violent and extremist paths. More broadly, youth, education and local communities have become crucial entry points for securitized responses against the challenges and threats of terrorism and radicalization. This chapter aims to critically analyse counter-radicalization and countering violent extremism discourses and practices and reflect upon their implications and effects for a number of Kosovo societal sectors and actors such as youth, education and local communities. While many research and policy initiatives have focused on drivers, causes and mechanisms to counter violent extremism and radicalization, there has been no critical analysis of their societal effects. In this regard, this study has both theoretical and policy-making relevance as it tries to ll this research gap, while also reflecting on dilemmas of current strategies and projects as well as providing insights for future policy initiatives in Kosovo.