Education key to tackling terror

Global counter violent extremism efforts should focus on two key institutions — education and prisons, experts taking part in the Counter Violent Extremism Working Group in Abu Dhabi yesterday suggested. They say education must be at the core of any counter violent extremism effort. "Schools where extremist ideas and ideologies are taught or promoted can have a dangerously radicalising effect on impressionable young students," said a paper presented during the two-day forum which ended yesterday. The paper argued educational institutions where critical thinking and analysis is emphasised can help inoculate youth to radical ideas and influences. "Prisons are also an area of growing concern. First, many of the terrorists who are currently incarcerated will eventually be released, and we need to take steps to ensure that they do not return to violence, once they're back on the streets."