Although gender is often an important factor in radicalisation processes, little research has been done on it so far. This is now going to happen in AMALTHEA, a research project of 15 organizations led by Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
AMALTHEA investigates the role of gender in radicalisation and extremism. The aim is to contribute to an inclusive, data-based and ethically responsible approach to radicalisation, with gender at the heart of future prevention strategies. Ultimately it should strengthen resilience against radicalisation across Europe.
The 15 partners from Europe and Canada are universities, civil society organisations, technical companies and police forces. Principal Investigator is Ioana Vrabiescu, senior Assistant Professor at the VU Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.
AMALTHEA is funded by the European Research Executive Agency (REA) and runs from October 2025 to September 2028.
Multi-layered methodology
To achieve its objectives, the project follows a comprehensive, multi-layered methodology that integrates research, modelling, innovation and validation.
The project begins with a dynamic knowledge base of data from online sources, primary research with stakeholders, and cross-country policy analysis. That enables examining the complex connection between social belonging, identity construction, trauma, empowerment narratives, and structural inequalities.
The knowledge on gender and extremism will then be modeled and organised to develop tools and interactive resources for LEAs, civil society organisations, local actors and other relevant stakeholders. The final stage focuses on the validation and capacity building, testing and refining in real-life contexts.
----- EU disclaimer: AMALTHEA “EnAbling a Model-driven deep understAnding of the roLe of gender Towards a Holistic solution against Extremism and radicalization Activities” project has received funding from European Research Executive Agency under grant agreement No 101225661. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. -----