How Former Neo-Nazis Can Fight Extremism

Far-right extremism continues to grow in Europe, but some have renounced their views and resolved to help others.

Exit UK is an independent organization that helps people leave far-right extremism. Founded by the ex-leader of a violent neo-Nazi group, it's not the only one in Europe.

The Exit movement started in Norway in 1997, and Germany and Sweden followed. Today, there are at least eight groups worldwide, including in the US (run by an organization called Life After Hate)

They help with things ranging from getting rid of tattoos to offering emotional support.

The "formers" have proven to be a very successful "tool" in the process of deradicalization because they have a deep understanding of the radicals: why they joined in the first place, how they feel, etc.

Because they have been in their shoes, they know that at some point people realize how dysfunctional these groups are. That is the moment when they take action and say: "I'm here. I can help you."

You can also find first-hand accounts from "formers" linked inside the article about how they use their experience to help others. 

It is an interesting piece, and an example that could be applied to other cases of deradicalization, for instance now that we face the return of thousands of foreign jihadists who fought in Syria and Iraq.