Publications

The first specialist publication by dist[ex] – Development of a Network for Disengagement and Exit Work presents the results of a broad-based needs assessment among counselling centres for disengagement and exit work in Germany, which was carried out in the first project year in 2025. The results reflect the perspectives and needs of 84 organisations and projects and form the basis for the (further) development of dist[ex]'s services. The publication also brings together four policy papers that analyse the current challenges of radicalisation, disengagement and exit.

The policy papers deal with 

• the increase in (extreme) right-wing attitudes and behaviour among young people and the resulting demands on educational practice
• the phenomenon of radicalisation among older people
• the issue of German foreign terrorist fighters in northern Syria in the context of possible repatriation
• the relevance of cooperative approaches between civil society and state actors and the expansion of existing multi-agency structures.

It is clear that radicalisation processes occur in all age groups and social contexts and require specific political, educational and structural responses in each case. The contributions show that a differentiated, cross-phenomenon and life-stage-sensitive approach is essential for effective disengagement and exit work. This requires reliable support structures, clear responsibilities and continuous professional development. With this specialist publication, the dist[ex] cooperation network provides impetus for professional practice, research and political decision-makers.