Graphic novels as a means of combating radicalisation online

With his graphic novel "Three Stones", author Nils Oskamp sensitised around 350 young people in Bocholt and Isselburg to the dangers of right-wing extremism. In multimedia readings at the LernWerk in Bocholt and at the Weitblick comprehensive school in Isselburg, he reported on his personal experiences with right-wing violence. An accompanying exhibition offers further information and offers of help until mid-May.

"With this event format, the city of Bocholt is setting an example for democratic coexistence and against the increasing radicalisation of young people", explains Isabel Testroet, Head of the VHS and Junge Uni division. The project was realised by the Bocholt-Rhede-Isselburg Adult Education Centre in cooperation with JUBoh as part of the "Shaping Diversity" initiative. Nils Oskamp presented his autobiographical graphic novel in an interactive format that took the young people in years 7 to 12 directly into their own world.

Classes from the Weitblick comprehensive school in Isselburg, St. Georg Gymnasium, Euregiogymnasium, Albert-Schweitzer-Realschule, Arnold-Janssen-Schule and Hohe-Giethorst-Schule took part in the three events. Oskamp combined his reading with visual elements and gave a vivid account of his career. In the discussions that followed, he answered the pupils' questions and specifically addressed current trends in radicalisation via platforms such as TikTok.

"The events highlighted the need to recognise changes in society at an early stage and actively stand up for democratic values", Testroet summarised the successful format. "In order to deepen the content in the long term, a supplementary exhibition has been set up in the small foyer of the LernWerk. This not only shows extracts from the work, but also provides a structured overview of support services and contact points for those affected."

Interested members of the public can visit the exhibition free of charge until 13 May 2026. The accompanying material for the graphic novel is also available for further educational work.