Restoring Family Bonds and Preventing Vulnerability (Tunisia)

Murad, a 15-year-old boy from rural Siliana, Tunisia, grew up amid loss and hardship. After his mother’s death, he became the sole caregiver for his ill grandfather, shouldering responsibilities far beyond his years. Isolated and emotionally strained, his relationship with his father broke down, leading to emotional neglect and eventually dropping out of school.

His life began to change when he was welcomed into the CDIS Naassen centre, a partner of the TAKAMUL project, which provides psychosocial and family support to at-risk youth. Within this safe and nurturing environment, Murad found the space to express his emotions and receive guidance.

A key breakthrough occurred during a family support session, where a symbolic game called “Each Has Their Role: Parent and Child” helped Murad and his father reconnect. The game opened the door to mutual understanding, allowing both to articulate long-held emotions. This emotional reconnection led to a significant gesture: for the first time, Murad’s father acknowledged his needs and granted his wish for a mobile phone, symbolising recognition, trust, and a fresh start.

Today, Murad is flourishing. He has returned to school, actively participates in artistic and musical activities at the centre, and is slowly rebuilding his sense of joy and childhood.

The TAKAMUL project plays a vital role in preventing violent extremism (PVE) by:

• Addressing early risk factors such as isolation, trauma, and family breakdown that can leave young people vulnerable to radical influences.
• Strengthening protective environments, including supportive family relationships and access to psychosocial care.
• Reinforcing resilience by helping youth find positive identity, belonging, and hope for the future.

By restoring dialogue and rebuilding emotional bonds, TAKAMUL not only changed Murad’s life, it helped fortify his resilience against the lure of extremism, ensuring a safer and more inclusive path forward.