Violent extremism is considered one of the most dangerous phenomena facing contemporary societies, as it poses a direct threat to human security and the stability of nations. Extremism often begins with rigid ideologies based on rejecting others and refusing diversity, and gradually develops into violent practices that may escalate into terrorist acts targeting individuals, institutions, or public property. This phenomenon is not limited to a specific religion or society; it can emerge in any environment where social, economic, or political conditions enable the spread of extremist ideas. There are multiple causes of violent extremism, including lack of cultural and educational awareness, the spread of ignorance, unemployment, and feelings of marginalization or social injustice. Additionally, some groups exploit modern communication platforms to spread extremist ideologies and recruit young people, taking advantage of intellectual or psychological vulnerabilities. In many cases, the absence of dialogue within families and educational institutions makes youth more susceptible to such ideas. When extremism turns into violence, it leads to aggressive behavior based on the use of force to impose beliefs or achieve certain goals. At this stage, terrorism emerges as the most dangerous outcome of violent extremism, as it relies on intimidation and the spread of fear to achieve political or ideological objectives. The impact of terrorism extends beyond direct victims, affecting economic and social development, weakening trust within communities, and disrupting education, work, and overall stability. Addressing violent extremism requires comprehensive efforts that begin with education and awareness, promoting a culture of dialogue and acceptance of others, and enforcing the law firmly against those who engage in or support terrorism. Supporting youth and providing access to education and employment opportunities are also essential in protecting society from radicalization. Building a tolerant and just society is the true foundation for reducing this phenomenon and ensuring security and stability. This issue is closely linked to **Sustainable Development Goal 16**, which focuses on promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions, as reducing extremism and terrorism contributes to building a safer and more stable society. Al-Mustaqbal University… the leading private university in Iraq.