The Center for Research and Policy Making (CRPM) is implementing the Guardian Shield project with the overarching goal of operationalizing referral mechanisms for individuals vulnerable to radicalization at the local level. By strengthening community resilience, the initiative seeks to counter radicalization processes that can lead to violent extremism.
As part of this effort, CRPM—in partnership with RADAR (RadarAdvies | Social Questions Office)—delivered a training this June for around 30 representatives of multidisciplinary teams from the municipalities of Gostivar, Kumanovo, and Shtip. The training focused on building skills for effective multiagency cooperation, a cornerstone of the referral mechanism developed by CRPM in collaboration with the National Coordination Body for Countering Violent Extremism and Terrorism.
During the sessions, CRPM and RADAR experts introduced participants to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for referrals, outlining the steps required to identify, refer, and support individuals vulnerable to radicalization. The training highlighted how local teams can apply these procedures to create safe pathways for community integration, ensuring that vulnerable individuals receive appropriate support while safeguarding human rights and community security.
Through RADAR, participants were also exposed to international practices and lessons learned from the Netherlands, Denmark, and Albania. These examples showcased how multiagency cooperation can effectively address the challenges of youth radicalization, offering valuable insights for strengthening the Macedonian context.
Contribution to National Strategy
The training is implemented within the Guardian Shield project in cooperation with the Hedayah Center of Excellence and the National Coordination Body for Prevention of Violent Extremism and Fight Against Terrorism, with financial support from the European Union.
This initiative directly contributes to Strategic Objective 1.2 of the National Strategy for Countering Violent Extremism (2023–2027), which envisions the development of a referral mechanism recognized by both professionals and the broader community.
By equipping local teams with knowledge, tools, and international best practices, Guardian Shield is helping to build a stronger, safer, and more resilient society in North Macedonia.
