From 20th until 26th of November, 2019, Asociación PROJUVEN had the pleasure to organize in Torremolinos, Spain the KA1 training course “Radicalization Stop”. The project involved youth workers coming from Italy, Poland, Romania, Denmark, Latvia and Spain.

The main aim of “Radicalization Stop” was to support youth workers to develop their competences in understanding the main root causes contributing to young people’s vulnerability and what can be done to prevent them from being radicalized. The project was based on non-formal learning methodology and include methods such as ice breakers, energizers, name games, reflection groups, working into intercultural subgroups, facilitated discussion, creative presentations, simulation, case study, and debates.

The first day of “Radicalization Stop” training was dedicated to get to know each other games, presentation of the training programme, project goals and objectives. Participants were invited to share also their expectations and fears for the next days spent together as well as share opinions on the upcoming topics.

During the second day, in national groups youth workers presented the types of radicalization in their countries and identificated the main problems that have to be tackle. After deep discussion on several problems, participants were divided in different groups for the next activity called “Your superhero”.  They had to choose some superheroes, that kids tend to like and act like them, and describe young people vulnerability related to these personages. Later, they were also involved in role play games where they should to present several situations that can influence on people behaviour and youth radicalization.

In the next few days, youth workers learnt more about the different types of extremism and in groups they discussed what have to be done to prevent youth radicalization and how people have to react in case they suspected that someone around them is radicalized. In addition, divided in groups, participants chose several extremist groups and described their ideologies, propaganda tools, leaders, etc.

Another interesting role play activity was the one where youth workers had to transformed angry speech and violent ideas into positive messages using slogans, songs and texts. Participants also made their campaign using the online platform change.org. They created their petition “Support youth workers against youth radicalisation” with which they aimed to raise awareness on the topic because we each have a unique and powerful role in stopping extremism but we must confront extremism now! They also shared their recommendations letters on how to prevent and deal with youth radicalization.

During the week, participants also had the chance to organize an Intercultural night, where each national group, presented their food, traditions and dances.

The training course finished with the release of the Youthpass certificates to all participants, presentation of Erasmus Plus opportunities and final evaluation of the training week. This training course was organized thanks to the support of our Spanish National Agency INJUVE and Erasmus Plus programme of the European Union.