Managing the return of the many individuals who have traveled to conflict zones and the growing number defecting from terrorist groups
is a priority for many countries. Effective and sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration (R&R) programs are essential to addressing
this challenge and preventing violent extremism over the long term. Governments cannot do this work alone and should work with
civil society and other local actors. Effective R&R requires attention and action at the state, community, public discourse, family, and
individual levels. Because R&R is an individual, psychosocial process that requires the sustained engagement and involvement of local
communities, families, and other supportive social networks, civil society has a unique contribution to make. Civil society organizations
(CSOs) often have the trust of and access to the affected individuals and communities in ways that government officials do not.
Here are 10 steps that governments should take for effective R&R efforts.