UNESCO launches teachers' guide on prevention of violent extremism: UN spokesman

The UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Wednesday launched a guide on how teachers discuss and prevent violent extremism, a UN spokesman said here.

"UNESCO says the guide provides practical tips to educators seeking guidance how to discuss this touchy subject in classrooms," Stephane Dujarric said at a daily news briefing.

"The publication also recommends resources to develop a deeper understanding of the phenomenon of violent extremism and responds to frequently asked questions," he said.

The new guide is initially published in English and French with more language editions to follow, he added.

The new publication, entitled "A Teacher's Guide on the Prevention of Violent Extremism," constitutes UNESCO's first contribution to the implementation of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.

"This guidance seeks to provide countries with a set of resources that can help build and reinforce national capacities to address the drivers of violent extremism through holistic and pragmatic education sector-wide responses," it said.

"Violent extremism and the underlying forces of radicalization are among the most pervasive challenges of our time," it said. "While violent extremism is not confined to any age, sex, group or community, young people are particularly vulnerable to the messages of violent extremists and terrorist organizations."

"In the face of such threats, young people need relevant and timely learning opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes that can help them build their resilience to such propaganda," it added. Enditem