Bullets to Ballots: Collective De-Radicalisation of Armed Movements

Bullets to Ballots investigates how and why armed organizations transform into unarmed activist movements, analyzing 20 case studies from 16 countries. It offers a rare cross-regional, qualitative comparative approach and includes first-hand de-radicalization leader testimonies. The book contributes to our understanding of democratic transition, ending civil wars, peacebuilding, countering violent extremism, counterinsurgency, and counterterrorism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 19 May 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

De-radicalisation is a global phenomenon where armed organizations transform into political parties or non-violent social movements. Bullets to Ballots explores the different trajectories that this process can take, whether it occurs after a military victory, a military defeat, or a draw in an armed conflict between insurgent groups and incumbent authorities. A result of a unique collaboration between leading scholars, high-level governmental practitioners, and non-state organizational leaders, this volume offers a rich comparative analysis of de-radicalisation processes from around the world. It answers the questions of when, why, and how collective de-radicalisation happens, and it deepens our understanding of this as a means of preventing violent extremism.

The book begins by examining the theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence that underpin the study of de-radicalisation. It then presents 20 case studies of transformation from 16 countries, including Egypt, Iraq, Algeria, Libya, Syria, Spain, the UK, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. These case studies offer a rare cross-regional, qualitative comparative approach, utilising personal interviews with the representatives of organizations inspired by religious-based, leftist, ethno-nationalist, and nationalist ideologies.

The book includes first-hand de-radicalisation leader testimonies, providing a unique insight into the processes and challenges of de-radicalisation. These testimonies shed light on the strategies and tactics used by organizations to transition from armed conflict to peaceful activism, and they offer valuable lessons for policymakers and practitioners working in the field of countering violent extremism.

One of the key findings of the book is that de-radicalisation is not a one-size-fits-all process. Different factors, such as the nature of the armed organization, the political context, and the social and cultural dynamics of the region, can influence the trajectory of transformation. The book also highlights the importance of engaging with and building trust with local communities and religious leaders in the de-radicalisation process. This approach can help to address the root causes of violent extremism and promote a more inclusive and peaceful society.

In conclusion, Bullets to Ballots is a valuable contribution to the field of countering violent extremism. It offers a comprehensive and comparative analysis of de-radicalisation processes from around the world, and it provides valuable insights and lessons for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working in this field. By understanding the factors. The book contributes to our understanding of democratic transition, ending civil wars, peacebuilding, countering violent extremism, counterinsurgency, and counterterrorism.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474467124