he streetwork@online project has been actively engaged in the prevention of Islamist extremism since 2023, utilizing the method of outreach-based digital social work. In recent months, our project has continually developed in the field of online streetwork within Islamist-extremist networks. A core component of this work is regular intervention and prevention efforts in relevant online communities such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Telegram. The aim is to reach at-risk youth and young adults who are active in or exposed to radicalized online environments.
Our work begins with a careful analysis and identification of relevant networks and platforms where extremist content is disseminated. Through the consistent presence of our online streetworkers in these digital spaces, we succeed in building trust with users. This presence is crucial for providing alternative perspectives during critical moments when users might be turning toward radical ideologies. Moreover, we support individuals in other challenging phases of their lives by offering accessible assistance.
In parallel with our streetwork activities, we have been intensively developing targeted content to engage our audience more effectively. This effort involves close collaboration with young peers as part of our media campaign “PEERspective.” These peers play a vital role in creating content that is not only informative but also emotionally and socially relevant to users. Together with these peers, we have produced a wide range of multimedia content, from brief memes to longer, discussion-promoting pieces.
Another significant goal of our project is building a dedicated community on the Discord platform. This community serves as a safe space for sharing information, experiences, and mutual support among like-minded individuals who oppose extremist ideologies. Discord provides us with the opportunity to interact with our target group in real time, offering direct counseling or support when needed. Our community continues to grow, and we are actively working to foster engagement through regular events and discussion sessions.
A particularly important milestone in our work is the planning of a symposium titled “Navigating Digital Streets: Methods and Perspectives in Online Extremism Prevention” on November 14, 2024, in Berlin. This symposium will address current methodological challenges and successes in the field of online prevention against Islamist extremism. It aims to bring together various actors from academia, civil society, and practice to discuss best practices and develop new strategies. The event’s goal is to showcase innovative approaches and raise awareness about the significance of digital prevention work.
