Dealing with Radicalization in IDP Camps

IDP, Radicalisation, De-radicalisation, Disengagement, Counter-Radicalisation

The Middle Eastern region of the USCENTCOM area of responsibility (AOR) currently has approximately 20million displaced persons, many of whom live in camps (see NSI Reach back question B3 response). These people have been uprooted, lost their livelihoods, and in many cases experienced severe trauma. These stresses place them at risk of radicalization as their frustrations and grievances increase with time. Research was conducted on counter-radicalization and deradicalization programs appropriate for use in refugee camps, returning a broad range of counter-radicalization measures, and screening and segregation protocols. Their validity, respective pros and cons, and implementation considerations are reported here. Determining the appropriate measures for protecting refugees, building community resilience, and triaging individuals who would most benefit from deradicalization programs can inform how USCENTCOM can take action, or support organizations that are engaged with deradicalization in refugee camps.