Please read the terms and conditions carefully before registering.
As the global environment becomes increasingly complex and unstable, the threat of terrorism and (violent) extremism remains a persistent challenge. The Islamic State (IS) and its affiliated groups remained the deadliest terrorist organisation globally in 2024. The Sahel remains the region most impacted by terrorism, while Niger, Pakistan, Russia and Iran recorded the largest increases in deaths caused by terrorism in 2024.
At the same time, the West is grappling with a spike in lone-actor attacks which, though less complex, are far harder to detect and prevent. As many perpetrators are no longer by clear ideological commitments, personal grievances and psychological vulnerabilities contribute to blurring radicalisation pathways, thus complicating prevention efforts. Furthermore, online environments increasingly offer fertile soil to youth radicalisation, with minors being particularly vulnerable to the phenomenon.
Across the world, terrorist and violent extremist activities have continuously triggered an increase in security laws and measures. To prevent terrorism and violent extremism, states have grappled with defining terrorism and proscribing terrorist and extremist organisations, introduced early prevention mechanisms, and expanded domestic and international legal and policy toolkits to counter this ever-developing threat. However, these approaches raise a few fundamental questions. Are these measures lawful, legitimate, and proportionate to their impact on the rule of law and human rights? What are the future threats, and how can they be countered while respecting the rule of law and human rights?
About the programme
The 16th edition of our renowned summer programme will bring you inspiring and thought-provoking lectures by leading experts in the field, interactive sessions, group discussions (under the Chatham House Rule), and panel presentations. You will also have the unique opportunity to network with fellow professionals in the field, both based here in The Hague and further afield.
You will have the opportunity of joining two in-person study visits, which will take you to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) and the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation (Eurojust).
This programme is co-organised by the Asser Institute and the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism.
This advanced programme will provide you with in-depth insights into:
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Definitional debates
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Pathways to extremism and terrorism
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Youth radicalisation
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Far-right terrorism and (violent) extremism
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Financing of terrorism
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Regional security landscapes (Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia)
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The role of transitional justice in countering terrorism
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Foreign Fighters in Syria & Iraq
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Reflections on emerging threat and the future of (counter-)terrorism
Confirmed speakers
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Prof. Ben Saul, UN Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms while Countering Terrorism
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Prof. Richard English, Queen’s University Belfast
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Dr Thomas Renard, ICCT
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Dr Nidal Nabil Jurdi, International Criminal Court
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Gunnar Weimann, Europol
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Ottavia Galuzzi, UNICRI
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Dr Elena Dal Santo, UNICRI
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Dr Christophe Paulussen, Asser Institute
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Dr Barbara Molas, RAND
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Dr Tasniem Anwar, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)
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Fulco van Deventer, Human Security Collective
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Dr Niki Siampakou, Asser Institute
Who should attend?
This short course is designed for professionals working in the field of counter-terrorism and P/CVE, including practitioners, diplomats, academics, PhD candidates and advanced students, policy makers, civil servants, security services, professionals in the NGO sector, and national and international organisations. The course is, however, open to anyone who wishes to deepen their understanding of the complex and cross-cutting issues raised by counter-terrorism and preventing (violent) extremism.
This programme is coordinated by Dr Niki Siampakou, researcher at the Asser Institute. She is part of the Asser Institute's research strand 'In the public interest: accountability of the state and the prosecution of crimes'.
Contact
If you have any questions about the training course, please send us an email at educationtraining@asser.nl. We will try to respond within two business days.
Alumni have said about previous editions of the summer programme:
“I would surely recommend it as it offers a wide spectrum of experiences combined with academic research and career-relevant practices. It provides both theory and practice whilst encouraging reflection on the future.” (2025 edition)
“The course challenges the way you think and exposes you to countries and professionals that have different perspectives on the same issues and threats I deal with.” (2024 edition)
“A very good choice to acquire background knowledge on the political and legal framework of terrorism, violent extremism and counter-terrorism in the EU/international contexts. Also relevant for tech professionals working in the sector of trust and safety and policy - if you're looking for crisp thinking, the most updated findings, and research in the area of online terrorism and violent extremism.” (2023 edition)
“Very inspiring, great networking opportunity and a lot of food for thought. Had an amazing week!” (2022 edition)
After completing this summer school, you will receive a certificate from the T.M.C. Asser Instituut and the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism.
Interested?
Registration for this course is now open.
If you are interested in this course but cannot join us this year, please fill out this form to stay informed about future editions and upcoming enrollment dates.