A project to counter the threat of extremism in its early stages is being developed at Australia’s Charles Sturt University.
The 3D virtual reality animation project combines science and data with creative skills and aims to show how a person with extreme views tries to convince a young person who counters those views.
Project researcher, Dr Waseem Afzal, told SBS Urdu the purpose is to help young minds understand the risks associated with extremism.
“Using some of the informational cues used in the extremist propaganda, we are developing an animation to inform about counter radicalisation research.”
In 2015, Dr Afzal received a research grant from the Australian Army focusing on understanding and countering information strategies of extremists.
“In recent times, more than 100 Australians went to countries such as Syria and Iraq for fighting there. Similarly, around 700 men from Germany and 500 men from Denmark became part of foreign recruitment from extremist groups.
It was quite shocking to witness so many people from developed nations become part of an ideology which only results in destruction.
Therefore we worked towards a project that could minimise extremism.”
Using 3D virtual reality and theatrical animation the researchers say the performance “focuses on tensions between a character with extremist views who tries to create a sense of confusion and hatred in a young person who counters the extremist views.”
The focus will primarily be on high schools where the animation will be shown to students highlighting the possible risks of extremism.
“We are going with a multitier approach for youth engagement. We will have high school partnerships, possible partnerships with religious scholars and with youth groups in the community.”
Animation to Counter Extremism (Credit - Youtube: Charles Sturt University)
Dr Afzal said there could be several reasons why people gravitate towards extremism.
“Financial issues, family problems or abuse during childhood are some primary reasons, along with criminal history or drug abuse.
If there is a boy or a girl who has had a horrible experience as a child and so in order to come out of that mental state they might move towards extremism.”
The researchers will now be working with participants for further development of the project.
