Tackling extremism a delicate matter

The issue of how we deal with extremism has rapidly increased in importance over the last few years. Recent terror attacks both at home and on the continent have predominantly involved young people who have been radicalised within Europe.

It is clear efforts to tackle the growing problem need to be stepped up, yet the newest government initiative has found itself facing criticism.

A new study suggests the so-called “prevent” scheme may result in young Muslims being unfairly stigmatised.

There is particular concern that fundamental values, such as tolerance and democracy, are being labelled as “British”.

No doubt some will pour scorn on such worries, but the new research does give rise to a troubling concern.

If the very people the initiative is trying to reach out to feel excluded from the off the chances of success are remote indeed.

Rather than promoting such virtues as tolerance as British, might it be better to merely present them as decent?

There are many people from all over the world living within the UK and Europe that have no problem respecting their own cultures and traditions while also behaving with dignity and respect.

Any strategy to tackle radicalisation must be realistic and inclusive, no matter how uncomfortable that makes us feel.