Commission for Countering Extremism publishes end of year report

The Commission for Countering Extremism has published its end of year report for 2022 to 2023. The document reviews the work of the Commission for Countering Extremism and its commissioner, Robin Simcox, over the past year.

Simcox was appointed to the role in July having previously serviced as interim commissioner since March 2021.

According to the report, the CCE has ramped up its engagement with government over the last 12 months while also ensuring it speaks to a broad range of external voices.

Also in November last year, Simcox gave evidence to the London Assembly Police and Crime Committee meeting on counter-terrorism and radicalisation in London, where he answered questions on a range of issues, including Prevent, the impact of COVID-19, prisons and the Online Safety Bill.

In October, the CCE held its inaugural Policy Week with virtual panel discussions to introduce government officials to the work of the CCE and showcase debate and discussion between leading academics and experts.

Throughout 2022, a portfolio of academic research products was commissioned focussing on: how blasphemy is viewed and presented by UK Islamists; how various fringe ideologies promote anti-government messaging online; incel networks; the evidence bases around radicalisation and deradicalisation; and the national research environment for the study of extremism in the UK.

Simcox also had conversations with the Welsh Government and leading counter-extremism academics and professionals on the challenges of extremism in Swansea and Cardiff.

Simcox said: "The challenges England and Wales face from extremist ideologies were once again laid bare in the last 12 months.

"We have seen an immigration centre firebombed, inter-community violence on the streets and attempts to silence the basic right to free expression. The fight against
extremism is a relentless one and, in such moments, it can also feel like a hopeless one.

"However, these events should also serve to remind us all why counter-extremism matters. They should remind us that striving for a more harmonious society – one free from terrorist violence, sectarianism and the restriction of basic rights – is as worthy a goal as ever. And that pluralism, democracy and liberty not only need to be defended: they need to be championed."

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