Strategies for Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) by Women’s Civil Society Organizations in Banyumas Regency, Indonesia

Abstract

The spread of radical ideologies, violent extremism, and terrorism in Banyumas Regency poses a
substantial risk, as indicated by the frequent arrests of suspected terrorists in the region over the past five
years. Terrorist acts affect both men and women differently, with women and children often experiencing
layered victimization. Furthermore, given the shift in terrorist strategies that now promote the active
participation of women as both sympathizers and perpetrators. Therefore, inclusive prevention strategies
are needed to engage women and gender perspectives in peacebuilding, counter-radicalization, and deradicalization. The efforts to prevent violent extremism should not be limited to the responsibilities of
central and local governments but must also engage civil society organizations. The objective of this study,
therefore, seeks to understand the views of women's civil society organizations in Banyumas Regency
regarding measures taken to prevent violent extremism. The research adopts a qualitative methodology,
employing in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) for data collection. The findings of this
research are that there are various women's civil society organizations that have undertaken preventive
actions against violent extremism, especially in counter-radicalization activities, including religious
education or da'wah, workshops and socializations, social community outreach, economic empowerment,
and promoting moderate teachings. They also collaborate with several organizations and local
governments to strengthen community resilience.