Countering Violent Extremism in Somalia

Author: Kristi Flaherty

Peace Policy Jan 2012Photo: Internews Network/Flickr

The U.S. government’s list of “Foreign Terrorist Organizations” is a central part of a counter-terrorism strategy based on the isolation of individuals and groups who espouse violence defined as terrorism. Peacebuilding, on the other hand, proposes a strategy of engagement and deliberative dialogue, inclusive of all views.

Posts in the January 2012 issue of Peace Policy:

John Paul Lederach explains how a process of engagement, rather than isolation, can shift extremist leaders away from violence and toward nonviolence. Read »

Ryne Clos argues that international policymakers would be wise to bring al-Shabaab into discussions for peace in Somalia. Read »

Laura Weis describes the impact of the U.S. blacklisting strategy in Somalia and presents an alternative framework. Read »

About Peace Policy

Peace Policy is a blog that offers research-based insights, commentary, and solutions to the global challenge of violent conflict. Each issue features the writing of scholars and practitioners who investigate the causes of violent conflict and who seek to contribute to effective solutions and alternatives to the use of force.

Peace Policy is edited by David Cortright, director of policy studies at the Kroc Institute, dcortrig@nd.edu.

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