Governmental bodies of the world need to disrupt terrorism and prevent online radicalisation

 Terrorism is a persistent and evolving global menace. No country is left untouched. The social media, encrypted communications and the dark Web are used to spread propaganda, radicalise new recruits and plan atrocities. The threat ranges from the crude tactics of lone actors to sophisticated coordinated attacks and the horrific prospect of terrorists by using chemical, biological or radioactive weapons.

Our response need to be equally agile and multifaceted. The heads of national counter-terrorism agencies and the representatives from international institutions and civil society will discuss on how to improve international cooperation and build new partnerships.

The conference will focus on four important aspects. First, it will consider how the government, security agencies and law enforcement bodies can improve their exchange of critical information and strategies to detect, disrupt and prosecute terrorist networks. Second, the conference will discuss about how the United Nations can do more to assist countries around the world that are affected by terrorism.

Third, it will address the threat imposed by foreign terrorist fighters. With the military for defeating the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria and Iraq, as large numbers of these ideologically-driven mercenaries are relocating to other theatres of conflict or returning home, passing on their battlefield expertise, recruiting new followers and planning further attacks.

Fourth, It can be intended as the conference might be willing to focus on how we can prevent terrorism and violent extremism. Improved security will never be enough. As there is a need to address the underlying conditions that make people susceptible to toxic ideologies.

Terrorism is a transnational threat that cannot be defeated by any single government or organisation. It needs a concerted multilateral response at a global, regional and national levels. It is essential to strengthen counter-terrorism structures and institutions. But we must also address the root causes by promoting education, tackling youth unemployment and addressing marginalisation. That means engaging with local communities, religious organisations and the media. Civil society is central to the conference and our broader counter-terrorism strategies.

No cause or grievance can justify terrorism. But it will only diminish the threat by ending the conflicts, human rights abuses, poverty and exclusion that drive so many to violent extremism. 

Terrorism and violent extremism have a profound gender dimension. Terrorists continue to violate the rights of women and girls through sexual violence, abduction, forced marriages and preventing free movement and access to education.

The international community has come a long way in its efforts to counter terrorism. There is a clear international draft that makes it easier to prosecute terrorists, disrupt their financial networks and prevent online radicalisation. But there is more that still had to be done. Terrorist groups share an agenda of authoritarianism, misogyny and intolerance.