Terrorists become increasingly ‘innovative’, in a world shaken by COVID-19 – UN News

VladimirVoronkov, head of the UNOffice ofCounter-Terrorism(OCT),concludedtheSecond High-level Conferenceof Heads ofCounter-Terrorism,bysumming upfourof thestrategic challenges facing the worldtoday.

He underscored the need for inclusive, forward-looking, evidence-based approaches to build resilience, in the face of the ISIL legacy in Iraq and Syria;terrorist threats in Africa;tackling transnationalriskssparked by various forms of intolerance; and the need toupgradetechnology and know-how to counter the scourge.

Deliberations over the last few days have advanced the Secretary-Generals vision to promote a networked global counter-terrorism response, said Mr.Voronkov.

However, he added,while preparing fortomorrowsthreats,wealsoneed tochangetraditional tactics.

Noting that hate speech has become pervasive and self-reinforcing through algorithms and online echo chambers,hesaid that countering the spread of terrorist content online remains high on the agenda.

Upholding the rule of law and human rightsis imperativefor successfulcounter-terrorism efforts, he said.

We must preserve and defend these fundamental values and operating principles while we work together to prevent terrorists efforts to destabilize our Governments and societies, stressed the OCT chief, saying that his office wouldintegrategender and human rights policies into all of its programming.

He also maintained the need to continue efforts to deliver tailored, cost-effective capacity-building measures to sustain impact, including through UN field-based programmes.

As many Member States continue to face severe capacity challenges in battling terrorism, Mr.Voronkovpointed out that new technologies are adding a layer of complexity.

He maintained that solidarity is in everyones common interest and that the international community cannot afford to leave any country behind.

It is clear that a terrorist safe haven anywhere is a threat everywhere, spelled out the OCT chief.

As the Organization readies itself to mark the 15th anniversary of theUN Global Counter-terrorismStrategyto enhance national, regional and international efforts,the UN official said, we should take comfort that this Counter-Terrorism Week has reinvigorated support for multilateralism.

He describedsome path-breaking outcomesto be included in an upcomingresolution, whichincluded countering the use of new technologies for terrorist purposes;tackling attacks based on racism and other forms of intolerance;andrepatriating, reintegrating and rehabilitating children with links to foreign terrorist fighters.

In closing,Mr.Voronkovreassured the Member States of the UNs leadership and to support andlooked forward tothe first Global Congress of Victims of Terrorismscheduled forDecember, andforthethirdUNCounter-Terrorism Weekin June 2023.

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Terrorists become increasingly 'innovative', in a world shaken by COVID-19 - UN News