Canadian experts who work on countering violent extremism among youth will visit Washington, D.C., and other U.S. cities from March 7-25 as participants in an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). They will have the opportunity to learn about organizations and individuals in the United States who work to counter violent extremism by supporting the developmental aspirations of young people. The program is organized by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa and sponsored by the U.S. Department of State.
This program will offer participants the opportunity to learn about initiatives to support youth organizations and community groups that work with youth who are susceptible to radicalization. The Canadian participants will interact with diverse community, academic, law enforcement, human rights, and government actors to discuss policy-making and program development on this issue. The visit will also highlight strategies for promoting interfaith dialogue, conflict resolution, and freedom of expression.
Participants in this program are:
- Jamie Dunlop, Staff Sergeant, Ottawa Police Service, Partner Assault Unit (Ottawa)
- Georges El-Azzi, Investigator, National Security Enforcement Section Projects Officer, Consultation Unit, H Division RCMP (Halifax)
- Kelly Gallant, Detective Sergeant, Toronto Police Service (Toronto)
- Abdi Hassan, Constable, Youth Intervention & Mentorship, Community & Youth Services Section, Calgary Police Service (Calgary)
- Randy Slawter, RCMP Protective Services (Halifax)
The IVLP enables Canadians who are emerging leaders in their professional field to observe U.S. institutions, practices, and culture first-hand, and to meet with professional counterparts to explore issues of common interest. Founded in 1940, the IVLP has given hundreds of thousands of emerging leaders — including hundreds of Canadians — the opportunity to observe and interact with American culture and society on a personal level. For more information, visit eca.state.gov/ivlp.
Participants are available for interviews before and after the program upon request.
