Radicalisation remains a complex challenge across the EU. While law enforcement responses remain essential, there is growing recognition of the need for upstream, prevention-focused approaches. This lecture explores how design, across multiple disciplines, can play a strategic role in this effort.
Drawing on more than 20 case studies, we explore how architecture, interaction design, service design, and industrial design help prevent radicalisation. Each case is evaluated through a mixed-methods strategy, incorporating functional coding, design research, and qualitative methods. This approach allows us to recognize new patterns, identify gaps, and uncover potential opportunities.
Findings suggest that designers bring valuable tools for reframing problems, prototyping community-based interventions, and engaging hard-to-reach groups. Co-design workshops, creative engagement formats, and redesigned public services or environments are explored among the practices.
The study is conducted as part of the Engage2innovate Horizon Europe project. Findings encourage discussion among policymakers, practitioners, designers, and researchers. We suggest acknowledging design as an essential skill for countering radicalization and fostering more inclusive, innovative approaches to social disintegration and extremist threats.