Exchange of experiences on countering radicalisation – a study visit by Polish experts to Romania
From 21 to 23 October 2026, a delegation of Polish experts representing the Internal Security Agency, the Prison Service and the Ministry of Justice undertook a study visit to Romania. The initiative was carried out as part of the ‘Education on Systems for Building Resilience against Radicalisation’ (ESBOR) project, which aims to strengthen the capacity of public institutions to prevent radicalisation and build social resilience.
The programme for the visit included meetings with representatives of the Romanian security services, government administration – including the Ministry of the Interior – and the public prosecution service. Discussions centred on the exchange of experiences relating to the implementation and development of initiatives co-financed by the European Union, aimed at countering radicalisation, developing mechanisms for the early identification of threats, and strengthening cooperation between institutions responsible for security and preventive measures.
Particular attention was paid to solutions aimed at identifying risk factors for radicalisation, enhancing the skills of representatives from various professional groups, and utilising expert knowledge in the design and implementation of preventive measures. Another key element of the discussion was the role of cross-sectoral cooperation, involving the security services, public administration, the judiciary and institutions in direct contact with individuals vulnerable to the influence of extremist groups.
A key part of the meetings was the analysis of new and evolving trends in radicalisation, based on specific case studies. Experts discussed the changing mechanisms through which extremist circles exert influence, the diverse pathways leading to radicalisation, and the social, psychological and environmental factors that may increase individuals’ susceptibility to such influences. The exchange of experiences also focused on how new communication channels, online communities and digital tools are used to disseminate radical messages, build communities and influence individuals who are particularly vulnerable to radicalisation.
Participants in the visit also discussed practical ways of countering these phenomena, including the importance of early identification of warning signs, an individualised approach to risk assessment, appropriately tailored preventive measures, and institutional cooperation at the various stages of the radicalisation process. Particular importance was attached to the exchange of information and experience between organisations whose areas of expertise complement one another, as well as to ensuring the continuity of prevention and reintegration measures.
The visit to Romania provided a further opportunity to develop international expert cooperation and to identify solutions that could be applied within the Polish system for countering radicalisation. The experience gained and best practices identified will provide valuable input for further work carried out under the ESBOR project, particularly with regard to improving risk assessment tools, training programmes and mechanisms for inter-institutional cooperation.
Contemporary threats related to radicalisation require an interdisciplinary approach, the exchange of international experiences and close cooperation between institutions responsible for security, the justice system and preventive measures.
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