Fighting the Ideological Battle

[JJ_BPK]

Engagement and counter terrorism are key elements of this comprehensive strategy, we argue, but the wide space between them must be addressed.

Missing are the policies and programs that should

suffuse the space between these two poles on the counter radicalization spectrum,

including efforts to contest the extremist narrative of radicalizers,

empower and network mainstream voices countering extremism,

promote diversity of ideas and means of expression,

and challenge extremist voices and ideas in the public domain.

Contesting the radical Islamist narrative does not mean arresting or banning despicable but protected speech;

rather, it means openly contesting extremist views by offering alternatives and fostering deeper ideological debate.

The objective in either case is to strengthen the moderate center against the extremist pole and help Muslim communities become more resilient in confronting the challenge.

Is it me,, or does this read like a lot of peace-nik BS???