Advancing Global Security
Through Research-Driven Strategies to Prevent Violent Extremism.

Advancing Peace And Security
Founded in 2015, the International Center for the Study of Violent Extremism (ICSVE) delivers field-driven research, training, and strategic counsel to leaders, security professionals, and civilian communities worldwide. Our work focuses on:
Capacity building and programmatic support
Countering and developing alternative narratives
Strengthening community resilience
Managing prevention and intervention efforts
Specialized CVE and counterterrorism training
Rooted in Deep Expertise
ICSVE emerged from the work of Dr. Anne Speckhard, whose two decades of experience in counterterrorism laid the foundation for a team with diverse academic and professional expertise. Our interdisciplinary approach drives real-world impact across global regions and complex threat environments.


Challenging Extremism Online
As extremist and terrorist organizations exploit digital platforms for recruitment and propaganda, ICSVE combats their influence with research-driven counter messaging. Our approach includes:
First-person interviews with over 800 terrorists and violent extremists
Terrorist testimony to act as powerful counter-narratives
Evidence-based video content to disrupt terrorist and extremist propaganda
Emphasis on understanding the roots of radicalization and online environments promoting violent extremism

Research With Real Impact
ICSVE’s fieldwork spans the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Central and Southeast Asia, and the Balkans. Our research archive includes:
277 ISIS interviews
16 al Shabaab interviews
Hundreds of militant jihadists
55 white supremacists
Over 300 counter-narrative videos
Trusted Global Advisor
We provide research, training, and strategic guidance to:
U.S. government agencies: State, Defense, Justice, Homeland Security, Health & Human Services, FBI, Congress
International bodies: NATO, OSCE, the EU Commission and EU Parliament, UN Women, United Nations Countering Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (UNCTED), United Nations Office of Drug and Crime (UNODC), INTERPOL and Europol
Foreign governments and embassies
Media organizations including CNN, BBC, NPR, Fox News, MSNBC, The New York Times, and more


Partnering for Lasting Change
ICSVE collaborates with scholars, creatives, policymakers, and donors who are equally committed to building a safer, more resilient world. We welcome partnerships that advance global counter-radicalization, elevate frontline efforts, and expand research-driven solutions. Support the frontline fight.