Introduction

Extremism and radicalisation can happen in many different ways and it is important that we define and understand the different types of extremism and radicalisation:

Domestic extremism

Domestic extremism refers to the activity of individuals or groups who conduct criminal acts of direct action to further their protest campaign.

This term covers the conduct of groups involved including the extreme right wing and animal rights extremists.

Violent extremism

Violent extremism refers to the activity of individuals or groups who conduct acts by any means to express views that justify or glorify terrorist violence.

This includes those who:

• encourage others to commit terrorist acts
• provoke others into terrorist related activity
• foster hatred that may lead to inter community tensions and violence within the United Kingdom

Radicalisation

Radicalisation is when someone starts to believe or support extreme views. They may also participate in terrorist groups or acts.

It can be motivated by a range of factors, such as:

• ideologies
• religious beliefs
• political beliefs
• prejudices against particular groups of people.

People may be radicalised in many different ways including through:

• websites, social media, video channels or online chat forums
• targeted publications, such as leaflets or posters
• direct one to one contact with someone who has extreme views.

There is no specific profile of anyone likely to become involved in extremism, and the process is different for every individual. It may take several years, or just a few hours or days.

Online extremism

Extremist groups often target people, especially younger individuals, via the internet or social media. With more people now online, a knock-on effect of the coronavirus pandemic, has seen an increase in this method of targeting.

This is often through online content that:

• shows graphic or violent extremism
• supports, directs or glorifies terrorism

This can include:

• articles, images, speeches or videos that promote terrorism or encourage violence
• websites made by terrorist or extremist organisations
• videos of terrorist attacks.

Report online extremism

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Next steps

Your report will be reviewed and the appropriate action taken.