Written By: Rtr. Isuri Dewmini

Have you ever wondered why some people are drawn toward violence, while others in the same situation choose peace?

For a long time, the world’s answer to terrorism was simple: wait for a threat to appear, then use force to stop it. But on February 12, we observe a day that flipped that logic on its head. 

The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism (PVE Day) as and when Conducive to Terrorism is a global reminder that if we want to end terrorism, we have to stop it before it starts.

The Story of February 12: From Bullets to Beliefs

The date isn’t random. It marks a historic turning point in global diplomacy: February 12, 2016: The UN General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution welcoming the Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism.

• The Shift: Before this, “Counter-Terrorism” was the primary focus—think intelligence, arrests, and military action. This plan introduced PVE, a strategy that looks at the “push” and “pull” factors: why people feel marginalized and what makes extremist promises of “belonging” so attractive.
•  Official Status: In 2022, the UN formally designated this date to ensure that “prevention” remains a permanent part of the global agenda.

The 2026 Theme: The Digital Frontier

As we observe PVE Day in 2026, the battleground has shifted. Extremists aren’t just in physical shadows; they are in our pockets. This year’s theme, “PVE in the Digital Age,” addresses how modern technology is being used to recruit:

•  AI & Deepfakes: Using artificial intelligence to create convincing disinformation and “rage-bait.”
•  Gaming Environments: Using the social spaces of online games to target and groom young people.
•  Algorithmic Echo Chambers: How unregulated platforms can funnel a curious user toward increasingly radical content.

The “Whole-of-Society” Approach: Who is Involved?

Prevention is too big for any one government. It requires a “Whole-of-Society” approach—meaning every part of our world has a role to play.

• Teachers – Building “mental armor” through critical thinking and media literacy.
• Religious Leaders – Reclaiming the narrative of peace and debunking extremist “theology.”
• Tech Companies – Developing ethical AI that detects harm without stifling free speech.
• Families – Being the first line of defense in spotting changes in behavior or isolation.
• Youth – Leading peer-to-peer programs, since young people listen to each other more than to adults.

Does Prevention Actually Work? (The Stats)

It’s easy to measure a successful arrest, but how do you measure a crime that didn’t happen? Organizations like the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund (GCERF) provide a glimpse into the success of the PVE model over the last decade:

•  4 Million+ Individuals: Directly engaged in resilience programs globally.
•  Community Ownership: In regions where local “Early Warning” systems were set up, community-reported concerns regarding radicalization rose by over 30%, allowing for social intervention rather than police intervention.
•  Education Impact: Youth who participate in “Global Citizenship” education are statistically 60% less likely to engage with extremist content online.

Local PVE organizations with “whole-of-society” approach

In Sri Lanka, the “whole-of-society” approach to preventing violent extremism (PVE) is highly active, with several key organizations working at the grassroots, national, and digital levels.

1. National Peace Council (NPC): Dialogue & Grievance Handling. 

2. Helvetas Sri Lanka: Youth & Digital Safety. 3. GCERF (The Global Fund): Jobs & Resilience.

 4. CPBR (Centre for Peacebuilding): Healing & Culture.

 5. Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement: Community Unity.

How You Can Observe PVE Day 2026

You don’t need to be a diplomat to help. Prevention starts with the way we interact with each other every day:

• Practice “Digital Hygiene”: Before sharing a post that makes you angry, check the source. Extremism thrives on unregulated emotion.
• Mentor Someone: Isolation is the number one recruiter. A sense of belonging to a positive community is the best vaccine against radicalization.
• Learn the Signs: Support local workshops that teach how to have difficult conversations with loved ones who may be drifting toward extremist views.

The goal for 2026 is a future free from terrorism, built not just on stronger walls, but on more inclusive societies.

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Buthma Menali