OSCE concludes workshop on use of social media to counter violent extremism and radicalization

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo and Kosovo Police concluded on 24 May 2017 in Prishtinë/Priština a two-day workshop on the use of the Internet and social media to counter violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism for the representatives of the police, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, religious groups, journalists and university students.

The workshop aimed at providing the participants with guidance on different Internet platforms and social media, how they work and how to find them. It looked into enhancing their capacity to identify extremist narratives, and to counter them by creating positive narratives and alternatives, and disseminating them. 

“The Internet and social media are very accessible tools that can especially make the youth interested  in violent extremism and can start a radicalization process,” said John Gustavsson, Senior Organized Crime Advisor of the OSCE Mission’s Department for Security and Public Safety. “It is extremely important for officials working on preventing or fighting extremism, as well as the society at large, to know how these online forums work, how to directly communicate with providers and create counter messages.”

Participants reviewed Article 147 of the Criminal Code of Kosovo on inciting national, racial, religious or ethnic hatred, discord or intolerance. They also learned how to react to improper messages, what to do if these are criminal in nature and how to report them to the platform providers and the police.

The OSCE Mission in Kosovo is mandated with the protection and promotion of human and community rights, as well as with democratization and public safety sector development. It regularly delivers advanced and specialized training courses for law enforcement agencies.