Representatives from the three pilot municipalities—Kumanovo, Gostivar, and Shtip—participated today in a dedicated workshop organized within the framework of the Guardian Shield project, implemented by the Center for Research and Policy Making (CRPM). The workshop focused on deepening local understanding of the radicalization process and enhancing institutional coordination through the presentation of a newly developed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
The event featured a detailed session on the phases, drivers, and challenges of radicalization, led by expert Aleksandar Cekov. He emphasized that radicalization is not a single event but a complex, gradual process influenced by a range of individual, community, and societal factors. Special attention was given to youth as a particularly vulnerable group, highlighting how socio-economic exclusion, identity crises, and exposure to extremist narratives can push individuals toward violent ideologies.
In a second session, Elena Grozdanova—expert in countering violent extremism—presented the new SOP for the referral mechanism. This document provides clear procedures for identifying, referring, and supporting individuals at risk of radicalization, and is designed to ensure coordination between social services, education institutions, health providers, and law enforcement, while upholding principles of confidentiality, human rights, and data protection.
Municipalities: The Frontline in Prevention
The workshop underscored the pivotal role of local governments in countering radicalization. Municipal authorities are not only implementers of national strategies but also key players in identifying early warning signs and mobilizing community responses. The SOP and associated referral mechanism place municipalities at the center of local coordination, empowering them to link vulnerable individuals with appropriate services—education, psychosocial support, health care, and civil society networks.
As outlined in the workshop, the municipalities’ responsibilities include:
- Developing local action plans aligned with the National Strategy for Prevention of Violent Extremism.
- Raising awareness and building resilience among youth and community members.
- Coordinating cross-sectoral efforts with schools, social work centers, religious leaders, and law enforcement.
- Monitoring local trends and risks related to extremism and radicalization.
The workshop also stressed the importance of strengthening municipal capacities—through training, inter-agency collaboration, and budgetary support—in order to implement effective, community-based prevention models.
About the Project
The workshop is part of Guardian Shield: Operationalizing the Referral Mechanism to Strengthen Resilience Against Radicalization and Extremism in North Macedonia, a project funded by Hedayah – the International Center of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism, through the STRIVE Global Programme Phase II.
By equipping local actors with practical tools and fostering a whole-of-society approach, Guardian Shield aims to enhance the country’s ability to detect, prevent, and respond to violent extremism before it takes root.
