Countering religious extremism in UK

Abstract

The results of opinion polls of modern British society conducted by both
governmental and independent organizations in 2017-2019 indicate increase in the relevance of
the problem of combating religious extremism as a key threat to UK national security. There is
a growing research interest in a comprehensive review and study of this topic, in the search for
adaptation opportunities for foreign experience. Based on the analysis of special literature the UK’s
experience is systematized and critically interpreted in countering religious extremism. The article
identifies the features and current changes in the legal regulation of countering extremism and the
spread of extremist materials including in the context of active «digitalization» and the spread of
information and communication technologies. The emphasis is on the study of preventive policies
regarding religious extremism. The levels of implementation of the “Prevention” Strategy, activities
and programs included in its individual areas and the main target audiences are characterized to
which they are directed. Youth policies are examined to combat the spread of religious radicalism,
government programs and anti-extremist civil society initiatives. The strengths and weaknesses
of the policy of countering religious extremism in the UK are identified; the main arguments of
criticism of the preventive strategy are analyzed.