REINTEGRATION OF FOREIGN TERRORIST FIGHTERS – RETURNEES, VIOLENT EXTREMIST OFFENDERS AND THEIR FAMILIES

Aleksandra Gruevska Drakulevski, Ph.D. Full professor /University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Law Faculty Iustinianus Primus in Skopje

Abstract: The paper focuses on the need to reintegrate foreign terrorist fighters (FTF) returnees, violent extremist offenders (VEO) and their families.

The paper provides an overview of the challenges of tackling violent extremism and the fight against terrorism. Also, the legal framework and institutional capacities for reintegration of FTF returnees, VEO and their families in the Republic of Northern Macedonia (RSM) are analysed.

By analysing the best practices of implementing programs for reintegration of these people, the paper formulates recommendations for relevant institutions, emphasizing the need to invest in reintegration of these people, because the benefits are multiple for both individuals and society as a whole. because their successful reintegration will prevent future criminal activities of these people, but will also prevent the threat of radicalization of other people. The families of these people who face the need for psychological, social, legal, health care and support will also benefit from the reintegration.

The author concludes that the process of reintegration of FTF returnees, VEO and their families is complex and implies active involvement of several institutions, bodies, local community, civil society organizations, religious communities etc. In addition, the reintegration process should be tailored to each individual. The state should make efforts to adequately respond to the challenge of conducting effective reintegration in order to prevent the risk of future acts of violence, radicalization, terrorism.

Keywords: reintegration, foreign terrorist fighters (FTF) returnees, violent extremist offenders (VEO), terrorism, violence.