Professor Laura Smith gives evidence to MPs on online extremism

Professor Laura Smith, Professor of Psychology and Co-Director of the University’s Institute for Digital Security & Behaviour (IDSB) gave evidence to MPs on Tuesday 15 July as part of the Home Affairs Committee’s inquiry into new forms of extremism.

Invited to appear in person following a written submission from the IDSB, Professor Smith joined fellow academic experts Dr Joe Whittaker (Swansea University) and Dr Daniel Allington (King’s College London) to brief the Committee on the latest research into online radicalisation.

She highlighted the changing nature of extremist online groups, including misogynistic and nihilistic communities that target women and girls, drawing on research from colleagues across the University’s Department of Psychology and IDSB.

The inquiry is exploring the drivers behind extremism in the UK, particularly how young people are being drawn into violence and criminality online. It also aims to assess whether current government responses – including the Prevent strategy – are keeping pace with evolving threats.

The IDSB submission involved members from across the Institute and was compiled by Dr Will Smith, Research Associate from the Department of Psychology.

Professor Smith said: “At the Institute for Digital Security & Behaviour, we research extremist groups, radicalisation, and conspiracy theories – and how they relate to the mobilisation of violence. A key concern is the increasing exposure of young people to harmful, extremist content through digital technologies.

“Giving evidence to the Home Affairs Committee was an opportunity to present our findings at the heart of government and contribute to the policy debate. It was a fascinating and sobering experience, and a privilege to represent the work of IDSB.”

The Home Affairs Select Committee, chaired by Dame Karen Bradley MP, includes members from Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and the Conservatives.

For support with Parliamentary consultations, evidence submissions or engaging MPs, contact Andy Dunne (Head of Public Affairs) via ajd65@bath.ac.uk.