EU must strengthen eastern and southern neighbourhood in fight against radicalism

EFD Researcher Tommaso Virgili summarises the findings of the EFD publication on "Secularism in Azerbaijan and the threat of radicalisation in the region". The author argues that Azerbaijan could represent a model for other Muslim countries, as a successful example of how secularism brings about religious tolerance and social harmony, and could also be a bridge between the West and the East. EU policymakers should explore ways to enhance this positive role played by Azerbaijan, he writes, while also being wary of the fact that radical forces, from different sides, pose a serious threat to this model. The research is part of a series within EFD’s counter-radicalisation programme.

The op-ed is in English and can be read here.