counter violent extremism
![Image courtesy of Robert Lyle Bolton via Flickr](https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/sites/default/files/styles/275x168/public/uploads/USIP_WEB.jpg?itok=Z5vH7rlB)
A United States Institute of Peace task force offers a new way forward to strengthen societies vulnerable to extremism.
![Image courtesy of Raimon Ribera via Flickr](https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/sites/default/files/styles/275x168/public/uploads/rsz_isis_0.jpg?itok=NQlx9KeK)
The second of a two-part series by Madison Jones on the soft power of ISIL.
![Image courtesy of Romeo Durscher via Flickr](https://uscpublicdiplomacy.org/sites/default/files/styles/275x168/public/uploads/Your%20Favorites%20-%20August.jpg?itok=IKUgC_MV)
A look back at which CPD features captured your attention this month.
To make progress on these and other complex international issues, it takes more than government to government diplomacy. The impact of individuals -- and communities -- plays a monumental role in shaping the perceptions of our country, whether through trade, art, music, food, or sports. In this endeavor we are making real progress. We have been hard at work building more flexible, rapid response elements to support foreign policy priorities.