Reducing Recruitment and Promoting Disengagement from Racist Groups

Abstract

Reducing the size of the neo-Nazi and right-wing extremist youth scene can be achieved by addressing processes of recruitment and disengagement, thereby changing the demographic balance of the groups and the career patterns of the participants. The relevant parameters are the number of people joining the scene, the number of people leaving the scene, and the length of time they remain in the movement. The shorter the time a new recruit remains within the group, the easier it is to quit, and the less will the person internalize extremist attitudes and behavior. The article describes the Exit project as it emerged in Norway and Sweden. It also presents some of the methods used to involve parents in getting their children out of the scene at an early stage, and methods to facilitate disengagement for more long-term participants who are motivated to quit the scene.