RAN VoT WG meeting - Involving victims/survivors in P/CVE, Nice 29-30 September 2022

Involving victims/survivors of terrorism in prevention/countering violent extremism (P/CVE) work can be extremely valuable. They have a unique perspective as they have directly experienced the consequences of a terror attack. Practitioners who wish to include victims/survivors in their P/CVE approaches might be hesitant to do so out of concern for potentially re-traumatising the victim/survivor or otherwise harming their wellbeing.

On 29 and 30 September victims/survivors of terrorism, representatives of victim organisations, and other P/CVE practitioners who are already working with victims/survivors or wishing to do so, gathered in Nice (France) to discuss how to respectfully and safely include victims/survivors of terrorism in P/CVE. Four core topics were discussed in relation to involving victims/survivors of terrorism in P/CVE efforts.

Firstly, the value of their testimonials in P/CVE approaches were explored. Secondly, the role of victims/survivors of terrorism in restorative justice efforts and in building social cohesion was discussed. Thirdly, the importance of cooperation with media (with a P/CVE aim) was explored. Finally, empowering young victims/survivors was highlighted.