Conference addresses the prevention of extremism

Over 100 delegates from academia, the police, youth justice and probation services, and the charity sector gathered at Park Campus recently to discuss what can be done to prevent extremism.

Hate Breeds Hate: Exploring Vulnerabilities and Social Responsibility, a joint conference between The University of Northampton's School of Social Sciences and Northampton Borough Council, featured guest speakers on what the government should do to prevent the radicalisation of young Muslims (Ajmal Masroor, Imam and broadcaster), and how youth justice and probation services have responded to the issues of extremism (Kerry Baker, The University of Northampton), as well as the account of 'Dorian', a former member of the English Defence League who spoke about his time in the organisation.

Dr Noureddine Miladi, Senior Lecturer in Media and Sociology, School of Social Sciences, The University of Northampton, who organised the conference, commented:

This was a very timely conference. We have been overwhelmed by the excellent response from government agencies, the police, and community organisations. It was a sign that a honest and fresh debate needs to take place on the dangers of extremism of all kinds in our society and how to fight it.

Dorian's account of his time within the EDL was particularly insightful,

emotional and unsettling; we thank him for talking to us, in a time he describes as 'it's never been easier for anyone to get mixed up in the right wing as it is now'.

Dr Noureddine Miladi