Prevention of Lone Wolf Attacks - Social Integration
iasparliament
November 03, 2017
What is the issue?
There has been a series of terror attacks in western countries by “lone wolves” including the recent attack in New York.
To tackle this, countries like Canada have been focusing on assimilating migrants into their cultural mainstream.
How can radicalism be prevented?
A lone wolf, lone-wolf terrorist or lone actor is someone who prepares and commits violent acts alone, outside of any command structure and without material assistance from any group.
It is the lack of belonging that is driving many to destroy their host countries.
Enhancing the “sense of belonging” among different groups rather than looking for reasons to detain or expel them could help.
Efforts for preventing polarisation along religious or ethnic lines through effective social integration is needed.
Investigators need to examine all the concrete details of the perpetrators’ lives rather than just the act of violence.
The root causes of radicalism should be identified and be dealt with the active support of community leaders.
What is Canada’s immigration policy?
Social Integrtaion - Understanding the plight of migrants, their worldview and their aspirations is key to any integrationist effort.
Enhanced social and personal relationships contribute greatly to the development of a ‘sense of belonging’.
For peple to forge a new beginning in the host society, having some form of a legal status and a job are crucial.
Ensuring free assess to rental services, financial systems, education and healthcare opportunities are also major aspects.
Cultural Integration - Canadian Multiculturalism Act, 1988 formalized a policy to encourage cultural diversity.
Developing a sense of tolerance through recognition and understanding became an aspect of public policy.
Accommodating the language of the migrants and funding multi-cultural initiatives can help.
Explaining Canadian customs and legal systems to the refugees is also given importance.
What is the way forward?
While enhancing surveillance and safety structures might help to an extent, they are only temporary measures.
Building a broader acceptance for other cultures is key to liberal democratic ethos.
