The VERA-2R is a scientific, evidence-based risk assessment instrument that is specifically developed for risk analysis and risk management of violent extremism. The protocol consists of a systematic and comprehensive instrument with 34 relevant risk-supporting and risk-mitigating indicators that are empirically related to violent extremism and a clearly described set of guidelines in how to apply and evaluate these indicators. The indicators are based on empirical and expert knowledge in violent extremism and terrorism. Throughout the years, the VERA-2R has been validated in various studies.
Next to the 34 risk indicators, the instrument contains 11 additional indicators that may impact the risk of individuals engaging in violent extremism and terrorism. Scientific evidence suggests that past non-violent juvenile criminal activity, problematic personal histories, and mental disorders may contribute to a vulnerability to future engagement in violent extremism activities when in combination with the presence of ideological, contextual, and motivational indicators identified in the VERA-2R.
In order to stimulate and facilitate the assessment of the professional, the VERA-2R is based on the Structured Professional Judgment (SPJ) approach. Using specific guidelines and clearly defined indicators and definitions, all risk indicators are assessed in order to provide a professional risk judgment and a relevant risk management plan for a specific individual within a specific context.
The systematic and transparent approach of the VERA-2R supports the judgement of professionals who have the task of making risk decisions. The instrument is not intended as a replacement for clinical or professional judgement but as a support for such judgement. The VERA-2R provides increased support and defensibility for risk decisions due to its scientific method and extensive, standardized and measurable individual risk indicators. The VERA-2R guides and supports the assessor to make the best risk judgment possible. The VERA-2R does not provide, nor is it intended to provide, a numerical outcome pertaining to future violent extremist action.