Sub-National Strategy for  Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism 

The Sub-National Strategy for Reintegration and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (P/CVE) in Northeast Syria (NES) is a comprehensive, data-driven initiative designed to address the deep-rooted social, political, and economic drivers of instability in the region. The initiative is predicated on the understanding that violent extremism is a temporary response to chronic instability and marginalization rather than a permanent societal fixture. Consequently, the project focuses on building community resilience and creating “peace dividends” to prevent the re-emergence of extremist groups like ISIS.

Context and Problem Statement

Northeast Syria faces a multifaceted crisis characterized by destroyed infrastructure, a trust gap between the population and local authorities, and severe economic hardship. Statistics indicate that 65% of youth are unable to find work that meets their basic needs, creating a vacuum that extremist groups exploit through recruitment promises. Furthermore, the presence of 16 detention camps, including Al-Hol, which houses tens of thousands of individuals affiliated with ISIS, poses a massive reintegration challenge. Returnees—particularly women and children—face intense social stigma and alienation, which limits their access to public services and community spaces.

The Multi-Sectoral Strategic Framework

Drawing from the sub-national strategy draft, the project intervenes across five critical sectors to foster a more extremism-resilient environment:

Education

Rebuilding destroyed schools and reforming curricula to emphasize critical thinking, civic responsibility, and tolerance lays the groundwork for a younger generation resistant to extremism. By increasing enrollment and teacher capacity, the project aims to equip youth with the intellectual tools needed to challenge propaganda and violent narratives.

Media and Communication

A balanced media ecosystem is a critical mechanism for countering extremist narratives. Local journalists trained in responsible reporting can also serve the critical role of publicizing awareness campaigns that promote social cohesion and non-violence.

Governance and Local Administration

Enhanced transparency and accountability within the Autonomous Administration (AANES) helps to bridge the gap between government institutions and the public. Effective local governance prevents ongoing administrative voids that extremist groups can take advantage of and assert their own de facto governance.

Security and Social Peace

The proliferation of unlicensed weapons can be addressed through support for voluntary disarmament programs. Emphasis is placed on the reintegration of former combatants by offering them social and financial alternatives to armed violence.

Reintegration and Return

Central to the strategy is the safe return of families from camps like Al-Hol. This is facilitated by Return and Reintegration Committees (RCVE)—composed of tribal leaders, civil society representatives, and local authorities—who oversee the vetting, sponsorship, and support of returnees.

Methodology and Implementation

The strategy utilizes a participatory “bottom-up” approach, involving high-level policymakers, religious leaders, and community elders. A specialized committee representing a diverse set of interests provides public oversight and ensures that implementation plans are tailored to local social dynamics. This process is informed by applied field research, such as the Aftershocks Report which identifies poor living conditions and eroded trust in authorities as drivers of extremism.

The P/CVE program seeks to create a sustainable, local framework that enhances the efficiency of reintegration efforts while building public trust in regional governance.

Partners and Donors

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