New research confirms ideology’s central role in terrorism, says UK Extremism Commissioner

Ansar Ahmed Ullah
Contributing Editor,Shottobani

London: Ideology plays a fundamental role in driving terrorism, according to a major new study commissioned by the UK government’s counter-extremism office. The research, conducted by Dr Donald Holbrook and published on 20 March, provides compelling evidence that extremists do not merely encounter radical ideas—they actively seek, engage with, and create ideological content that fuels their actions.

The findings were highlighted in a statement by Robin Simcox, the UK’s Commissioner for Countering Extremism, who described the research as a vital step in understanding the root causes of terrorism. “Terrorists do not passively absorb extremist ideology—they immerse themselves in it,” Simcox said. “This study shows that ideology is not a secondary factor in terrorism; it is central to understanding why individuals commit violent acts.”

Dr Holbrook’s research examined electronic content from 100 UK terrorists over multiple decades. The results were striking. Over half of those studied had produced their own ideological material, demonstrating not just exposure to extremist ideas but an active role in propagating them.

The report also found distinct differences between extremist movements. Islamist terrorists tend to rely on theological justifications for violence, often citing religious scholars, while extreme right-wing extremists focus on narratives of racial and cultural conflict. Notably, many Islamist terrorists were influenced by figures associated with so-called “non-violent” groups, such as Sayyid Qutb of the Muslim Brotherhood. “This blurred line between violent and non-violent extremism presents a major challenge for counter-terrorism policy,” Simcox noted.

The findings have significant implications for how the UK shapes its counter-extremism strategies. Simcox emphasised that expertise on extremist ideologies must be strengthened within government, ensuring that policymakers, not just academics, have a deep understanding of these threats.

Simcox stressed that tackling extremism requires a nuanced approach that differentiates between individuals fixated on violence and those driven by deeper ideological convictions. “The government must be nimble, using the right tools to address different types of threats,” he said.

The research, he concluded, should serve as a cornerstone for future counter-terrorism policies. “Understanding ideology is not optional—it is essential if we are to effectively combat terrorism and protect national security.”