Deakin University Professors Highlight Collaboration and Fresh Perspectives at AVERT 2024 Symposium

At the 2024 AVERT Research Symposium, Deakin University's Professors Michele Grossman and Matteo Vergani spoke about the crucial role of collaboration and fresh perspectives in addressing violent extremism.

Professor Michele Grossman, Research Chair in Diversity and Community Resilience and Director of the Centre for Resilient and Inclusive Societies, highlighted the symposium's dynamic atmosphere and its evolution over the years. She praised the event for bringing together academic researchers, practitioners, and community members to share challenges and innovative strategies. "The real value of the symposium lies in leaving with new perspectives and questions," she noted, along with the importance of informal dialogues and networking in enhancing the overall learning experience.

Associate Professor Matteo Vergani, an expert in terrorism and violent extremism, shared insights from his latest research on far-right intentions in the U.S. and the relationship between online hate speech and offline violence. He emphasised AVERT's unique position in fostering collaboration between academics and practitioners both in Australia and internationally. Matteo also praised the keynote presentation by Professor Noemie Bouhana for offering fresh ideas on rethinking violent extremism and radicalisation by focusing on social contexts and environments.