EU Knowledge Hub Delivers First Local Authority Strategic Communications Training in Malaga, Spain

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On 6 and 7 March, the EU Knowledge Hub organised the first Strategic Communications training on effective P/CVE (Prevention/Countering Violent Extremism) for local authorities in Malaga (Spain).

The training explored how extremist groups exploit the communications ecosystem, how narratives influence radicalisation, and how Strategic Communications can strengthen community resilience. It introduced participants to methods for understanding community dynamics, segmenting audiences, and tailoring messaging to resonate with specific demographic groups, through practical exercises with both digital and in-person engagement strategies. Participants also analysed successful and unsuccessful P/CVE communication initiatives to extract lessons learned and identify best practices applicable to their local contexts and were engaged in realistic simulations, such as designing communication responses to local radicalisation threats, to apply strategic communication tools and approaches in real-world scenarios. 

Strengthening Social Cohesion During Challenging Times 

Throughout the two-day training, specialists from the European Forum for Urban Security, the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund, Nordic Safe Cities, and the Strong Cities Network emphasised the growing polarisation and institutional distrust within European societies, driven by extremist narratives, disinformation, and malicious online activity. The specialists underscored the vital role of local actors in identifying and countering harmful narratives, including "fake news" and divisive content. They stressed that governments and communication practitioners must collaborate on effective P/CVE strategies, engaging communities, providing early warnings and designing effective campaigns. They also pointed out the necessity for governments and communication practitioners to collaborate on effective P/CVE strategies. It was highlighted that strategies involving community engagement, early warning systems and effective campaign design enhance the impact of strategic communication and raises awareness about disinformation, bias and online bullying, particularly when local efforts are aligned with broader P/CVE frameworks. 

Participants gained proficiency in crisis communication, enabling them to maintain public trust and strengthen social cohesion during challenging times. The training’s group discussions and breakout sessions fostered a powerful network of local authorities committed to P/CVE efforts, through the collaborative exchange of experiences, challenges, and strategies.

About the EU Knowledge Hub Strategic Communications

Strategic Communications, defined as planned and evaluated communication to achieve specific objectives, is crucial for P/CVE. It aims to influence attitudes and behaviours by carefully crafting messages and engaging with target audiences. Unlike traditional communication, it focuses on shifting perceptions and fostering positive change. Local authorities, deeply embedded within their communities, are essential in this process. 

The EU Knowledge Hub strengthens radicalisation prevention and Strategic Communications skills through varied training formats—in-person, online, and hybrid. Aligned with the European Commission’s annual Strategic Orientations, its programmes range from single-day sessions to extended courses, promoting EU-funded project materials. The Knowledge Hub also provides policy and project impact assessment and evaluation training, while facilitating regional approaches and national P/CVE collaborations.

Author: Euro-Arab Foundation for Higher Studies (FUNDEA)