We are committed to creating awareness of radicalisation through our projects and beyond. Training on cognitive biases that extremist propaganda can trigger on vulnerable youth is yet another step towards increasing our expertise.
On the 22nd of October, 2021, Sara Afonso, consultant and researcher at IPS (Radicalisation, Violent Extremism and Organised Crime Portfolio), attended a training day in Brussels as part of the PRECOBIAS “Prevention of Youth Radicalisation Through Self-Awareness on Cognitive Biases” project.
The training focused on exploring the impact of cognitive biases that extremist online advertising can potentially trigger among vulnerable young individuals.
During the day, relevant researchers made edifying presentations on the topic, broaching the role of automatic thinking in information processing and analysing the construct of online extremist content. Besides, participants became aware of the importance of cognitive bias in the field of radicalisation and violent extremism and understood the role of tools to fight it within P/CVE.
Hence, this event contributed to raising awareness and empowering participants with tools to face situations that involve young people at risk of radicalisation.
The training was aimed at representatives or members of counter-radicalisation and social work networks and organisations in the EU at a local level, who have regular experience with radicalisation.
Participants were able to network and share know-how and good practices on preventing and countering radicalisation and violent extremism, focusing on youth.
Moreover, the diversity of participants’ backgrounds and professional profiles enriched the event, allowing all to learn from each other and explore different realities in a dynamic and knowledgeable environment.
PRECOBIAS is funded by the European Union’s Internal Security Fund – Police. IPS’ participation in this training is a result of ongoing cooperation between European projects on the sector, seeking to improve member states’ response to radicalisation and violent extremism.