The aim of this course is to identify and challenge the core ideas used by extreme Islamist movements in constructing their narrative. The course also provides a sense of the context in which those ideas have emerged so that participants can gain a deeper understanding of the issues.

The CIN workshop provides a safe space, through an interactive facilitated experience, in which participants can learn about core elements of the Islamist narrative and how to challenge those ideas. Examples of these include the desire to establish ‘a caliphate’, arguments against democracy, the declaration of mainstream Muslims as apostates (takfir) or the argument that we live in a context of global warfare (dar al-harb). The course brings together theological as well as political and social awareness but does not require expertise in those fields.

By participating in the short interactive sessions, workshops and exercises, attendees should leave the course with the ability to more confidently identify and challenge Islamist arguments and thus enhance their work in this area or provide support to individuals who may be at risk of radicalisation or influence.

Length of course: 2.5 hours (but courses can be tailor made to suit specific groups).