International Counter-Terrorism Focal Points Conference

Transcription

1 International Counter-Terrorism Focal Points Conference June 2013 Addressing Conditions Conducive to the Spread of Terrorism and Promoting Regional Cooperation CTITF Global Initiative on Implementing the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Co-organized by the Government of Switzerland and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force United Nations

2 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation The The Conference was co-organized by the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) Office and the Government of Switzerland This document has not been formally edited. ii

3 Contents Preface v Opening Session Strengthening the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy 3 Session II The importance of regional cooperation in the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy 7 Session III Linkages between development and security 11 Session IV Role of civil society in assisting the implementation of Pillar I 15 Session V Role of victims of terrorism in countering the terrorist narrative 17 Session VI Dialogue, understanding and countering the appeal of terrorism 17 Closing session and summary of conclusions Annex I Agenda of the Conference 21 Annex II List of Participants 25 Annex III Speeches of Co-Chairs in Opening Session 27 iii

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5 Preface Since its adoption in September 2006, the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (A/ RES/60/288) has become an important strategic component in national and regional counterterrorism efforts. Its four pillars on (i) measures to address conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism; (ii) measures to combat terrorism; (iii) measures to build States capacity to prevent and combat terrorism and to strengthen the role of the United Nations system in this regard; and (iv) measures to ensure respect for human rights for all and the rule of law as the fundamental basis of the fight against terrorism have offered States and organizations a comprehensive and holistic policy framework to fight terrorism and violent extremism. The practical and balanced implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, however, has lagged behind the attention it has received. This shortcoming is often due to lack of in-depth knowledge about the Global Strategy in Government ministries, national law enforcement agencies and locally-based civil societies, who are critical to its implementation on the ground. Over the last 30 months, the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) Office, with support from the Government of Switzerland and other States and in partnership with a select group of regional States and relevant CTITF entities, has organized four regional workshops in Southeast Asia (Bali, Indonesia; November 2010), Eastern Africa (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; July 2011), Southern Africa (Windhoek, Namibia; October 2011) and South Asia (Dhaka, Bangladesh; May 2012) that brought together States, regional organizations, civil society and locally-based United Nations offices to explore policy dimensions and practical challenges in implementing the Global Strategy. Each regional workshop concluded with a Chair s Summary, which highlighted key regional priorities and offered recommendations on the way forward. Two common recommendations emerging from all four regional workshops on furthering the implementation of the Global Strategy called for improved regional counter-terrorism cooperation and a greater focus on addressing conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism in the long-term struggle against terrorism. With these important findings in mind, the CTITF Office, in partnership with the Government of Switzerland, convened the International Counter-Terrorism Focal Points Conference on Addressing Conditions Conducive to the Spread of Terrorism and Promoting Regional Cooperation at the United Nations Office at on June The Conference brought together Member States, United Nations entities, relevant regional organizations and civil society bodies to discuss ongoing activities and future priorities in regional cooperation and the implementation of Pillar I of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. At the Conference, participants discussed methods to build regional partnerships at the political and expert levels, identified links between the developmental agenda and counter-terrorism, shared insights on the critical role of civil society, built on their resolve to support victims of terrorism and elaborated on their experiences in promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding to counter the terrorist narrative. v

6 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation This report provides a snapshot of the key ideas shared by participants during the Conference. It also seeks to offer policymakers, practitioners and the public with views and insights on how regional cooperation can be promoted and ways through which the international community can make progress on the practical measures to address conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. It is our hope that the Conference and this report will provide a foundation for States and organizations to build upon as they work on instituting long-term strategies and policies to free our societies from the scourges of terrorism and violent extremism. Didier Burkhalter Federal Councillor Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs Government of Switzerland Jeffrey Feltman Under-Secretary-General Chairman Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force Office, United Nations vi

7 Opening Session Strengthening the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Political Affairs and Chairman of the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF), opened the Conference and called upon participants to address three main issues in their disussions: how do we translate the global resolve to counter terrorism into practical cooperation at regional level? How do we move beyond combating the criminal aspects of terrorism and address its root causes more effectively? And how do we ensure that we do not call into question the full respect of human rights when fighting terrorism? Mr. Jeffrey Feltman Under-Secretary-General Department Of Political Affairs He reviewed the progress achieved globally in the fight against terrorism, and specifically noted the work of the United Nations in promoting coordination and collaboration between a variety of partners. The role of the United Nations, he emphasized, was vital to translating international resolve into concerted action on the ground, especially by building in-depth knowledge of the Global Counter- Terrorism Strategy and offering capacity-building assistance to States. Enhanced regional cooperation is also an important facilitator in the achievement of concrete results. He stressed that while terrorism cannot be justified for any reason or for any grievance, there are socio-economic and political conditions that allow terrorists to build their narrative and gain support for their crimes. For any comprehensive, coherent and long-term approach to emerge and succeed, he called upon national counter-terrorism focal points to ensure that all relevant sections of Government, including those that are not traditionally associated with security, are playing their part. Finally, he also stated that human rights must never be compromised in the fight against terrorism. Instead, human rights are and should be used as a vital basis for building the narrative against terrorism. H.E. Mr. Didier Burkhalter, Federal Councillor and Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, co-chaired the Conference and the opening session. In his remarks, the Foreign Minister of Switzerland noted that the United Nations has a central role to play in the fight against terrorism because of its holistic approach, universality and the way in which (the Organization) interlinks different issues in addressing terrorism. 1

8 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation The Foreign Minister of Switzerland identified five important areas which Switzerland, as an active supporter of the United Nations in the fight against terrorism, attaches great importance to: a coherent and coordinated global counter-terrorism architecture; close cooperation between global and regional organizations; full adherence to the rule of law while fighting terrorism; support for development and peaceful resolution of conflicts as integral components in the fight against terrorism; and effective suppression of the financing of terrorism. This point is pivotal: the success of an antiterrorism policy can be guaranteed only by associating development and respect for human rights with the security dimension. Any other approach would merely mean treating the symptoms of the disease without trying to treat the cause. H..E. Mr. Didier Burkhalter, Federal Councillor and Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Extending a warm welcome to all participants, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at, H.E. Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev noted the opportunity that as a venue provides for integrating developmental and human rights dimensions into counter-terrorism discussions. He also alluded to how the global progress toward disarmament contributes to the fight against terrorism, such as by allowing more resources to be channelled to education, economic growth and empowerment of people, as well as in reducing the flow of lethal weapons to criminals. Speaking on the importance of upholding human rights and the rule of law, High Commissioner Ms. Navanethem Pillay said that national experiences provide concrete evidence that the protection of human rights and the rule of law help in combating terrorism by creating a climate of trust between States and their citizens. Fostering tolerance and solidarity within a society is a means of avoiding conditions conducive to violent extremism, she noted. In her remarks, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni, made five specific recommendations for the United Nations and South Asian States to explore: (1) collaboration between the United Nations and South Asian States on the mapping of regional counter-terrorism threats; (2) the development of a regional counter-terrorism strategy for South Asia; (3) outline of a voluntary code of conduct on civil society engagement against terrorism; (4) the establishment and dissemination of a repository of best practices in de- and counter-radicalization programmes; and (5) better integration of human rights in countering terrorism, especially through support for victims of terrorism. The Foreign Minister of Nigeria, H.E. Mr. Olugbenga Ashiru, spoke on the evolving threat of terrorism and extremism in the Sahel region, and how the threat is closely connected to lack of economic development and opportunities for the youth. He cited the strong partnership between his country and CTITF under the I-ACT (Integrated Assistance for Countering Terrorism) framework, which provides for a multi-faceted and sustained capacity-building process for Nigeria. He also spoke about ways in which vocational schooling can help deliver employment opportunities and build resilience in communities against terrorism. 2

9 Opening Session The Conference cautioned against linking terrorist crimes with any specific race, culture, or religion. Furthermore, the high-level delegates stressed against describing political conflicts in cultural or religious terms, since such portrayal can have the effect of alienating people and help attract individuals and groups to extremist ideologies. More broadly, participants noted that fighting terrorism through law enforcement measures alone is increasingly considered akin to treating the symptoms of a disease without studying the underlying factors that allow the symptoms to emerge and multiply. But knowing those underlying factors those conditions that are conducive to the spread of terrorism is not enough. The international community should together identify solutions, share experiences, provide capacity-building assistance and measure results in the implementation of Pillar I with equal enthusiasm and foresight. The purpose of convening this International Conference was precisely this: to provide a forum for national counter-terrorism focal points where ideas can be aired by Member States, international and regional organizations and civil society partners on how to move forward on implementing the Global Strategy especially its Pillar on addressing conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism effectively and comprehensively, as well as to evaluate existing and potential policy, institutional and practical responses to the threat of terrorism faced by various States and regions. 3

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11 Opening Session Session II The importance of regional cooperation in the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Increased globalization and technological advancements enable terrorists to operate in one country, recruit and raise funds in another and perpetrate attacks elsewhere. National laws and efforts against terrorism are critical, but they are often not sufficient when the broader region is afflicted terrorists operating in neighboring countries often find ways of undermining national strengths. Therefore, regional cooperation against terrorism is essential for effectively combating terrorism. The Sahel region was repeatedly cited as an example, where terrorism and extremism has spread quickly across a vast expanse of northern and central Africa, especially in the aftermath of the conflict in Libya. Participants welcomed recent efforts by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to improve regional cooperation against terrorism, but they also highlighted the need to implement such cooperation in practice. For regional cooperation to be successful, the political will of States and the capacities and mandates of regional organizations are key determining factors. Without necessary political support and resources from regional States, regional organizations will continue to lag in building cooperative structures. When such support and resources are available, and where regional organizations have the vision to improve cooperation, States should integrate cross-border cooperative frameworks in their national institutions. For any effective regional counter-terrorism strategy, close and systematic cooperation amongst all Member States is an essential prerequisite. The ability to address the scourge of terrorism would depend largely on developing and implementing strategies and programmes that would comprehensively address the conditions conducive to the development and spread of terrorism.. H.E. Mr. Olugbenga Ashiru, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria 5

12 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation While acknowledging the value of regional cooperation, participants also noted that regional cooperation through regional organizations has not yet been fully utilized toward building an effective common response. Political differences between neighboring countries, including on the issue of who is a terrorist, and variations in the level and nature of the terrorist threat from one country to another can cause divergences in national priorities. In such circumstances, participants noted the potential for the United Nations to play a facilitating role by bringing regional practitioners and experts together in order to develop a regional consensus on key priorities and thereby build informal networks and partnerships that gradually promote policy level cooperation from the bottom up. Regional organizations, specifically, fulfil their role in three important ways: first, they help institutionalize regional consensus through the adoption of regional conventions against terrorism. Second, some regional organizations have established dedicated counter-terrorism capacity-building institutions that allow regional States to regularly share best practices and offer assistance, where needed. Finally, several practitioner-based professional regional consultation forums have also emerged under the aegis of regional organizations, which allow national police or border agencies to cooperate under focused parameter. Participants also discussed the development of regional counter-terrorism strategies as important frameworks for improved cooperation between States. In this regard, the regional counter-terrorism strategies of the European Union and Central Asia were specifically raised, both of which are similar to the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in their comprehensiveness and holistic approach. Participants also called for greater cooperation between regional organizations and the Global Counter- Terrorism Forum (GCTF), whose thematic and regional working groups are valuable platforms for coordination in capacity-building assistance. Effective national counter-terrorism policies and institutions are vital. But when a terrorist threat exists in the broader region, all States in that region become vulnerable. So cooperation between States is also vital to address this challenge to national and regional stability and development. Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Political Affairs and Chairman of the CTITF 6

13 Session II Session III Linkages between development and security Development, security and human rights are closely intertwined. Earlier in his remarks, the Foreign Minister of Switzerland recalled the Secretary-General s report in 2006 titled Uniting against terrorism: recommendations for a global counter-terrorism strategy, which emphasized that development was linked to Governments ability to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, and that without development and respect for human rights, no counter-terrorism policy can be effective. More recently, in the declaration emerging from the Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development held last year, world leaders resolved to take further effective measures and actions to remove obstacles and constraints, strengthen support and meet the special needs of people living in areas affected by terrorism. As the United Nations High-Level Panel report on the post-2015 development agenda underscores, freedom from violence and conflict are essential foundations for peaceful and prosperous societies. As one panellist stated, personal security, access to justice, freedom from discrimination and persecution are key elements that are at the core of development. Terrorist violence is often difficult to root out from societies that lack legitimate national instruments which deliver security, justice and jobs to all sections of the populace without discrimination. The adoption of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in 2006 marked that seminal moment of the international community s recognition that good governance, promotion of democracy, poverty alleviation, human rights and the rule of law are fundamental factors in any effort against terrorism. Pillar I of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy broadened the scope of counter-terrorism beyond just training and equipping of military and security services; it brought to the forefront the important role of non-traditional tools and institutions that improve governance, reduce conflict, increase inter-cultural dialogue and provide justice, education, jobs and an outlook of a better future to all citizens. During the session, participants underscored the urgent need to bridge the divide between the security and development communities, who often operate in strictly compartmentalized milieus without much interaction. Participants welcomed the growing interaction between the two sectors in the field of criminal justice, where major donors and capacity-building partners, including the United Nations, are collaborating closely to deliver improvements in legislation, expertise and cross-border cooperation. Terrorism and extremism divide societies, destroy communal harmony and set back years of developmental growth. Participants expressed their resolve to support pluralism, diversity and inclusiveness against communalism, intolerance and exclusion. They shared important ideas from national experiences. One participant identified improved digital connectivity that facilitates rapid 7

14 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation feedback between communities and Government as an important vehicle to re-orient development, empower the people and provide the rulers and the ruled with a method to interact. Expanding the growth of a free media was also noted as a useful bulwark against the spread of extremist ideologies. Participants underscored that there is no better alternative to an inclusive, progressive and value-based education. Here, participants noted that technical and vocational training should be supplemented with formal and primary education in order to provide young people with the necessary skills to attain employment and thereby help address the growing youth bulge in several developing countries. In addition, informal education sector reforms were discussed. Participants stressed that the education sector in many developing countries requires large and sustained investments in order to build human capital over the long term and reduce social vulnerabilities against extremism. Here, women s empowerment was also cited as a critical component that serves as a force multiplier against radicalization.. There is a need for a fine balancing act, so that the counter-terrorsm efforts do not compromise the development agenda and vice-versa. The key here would be to keep both agendas above short-term political gains and situate them in a broader sustainable development context where the relevant actors feel encouraged to find points of convergence to mutually support each other s work. H..E. Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh 8

15 Session II Session IV The role of civil society in assisting in the implementation of Pillar I The Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy specifically calls upon nongovernmental organizations and civil society to engage, as appropriate, on how to enhance efforts to implement the Strategy. This session addressed the questions of how Government should provide civil society the necessary space to operate, and how civil society should be construed as more than just a tool to execute Government policy. Terrorists come from communities, and they appeal to individuals in communities and at the grassroots, often by exploiting grievances and inciting them to commit acts of violence. Today, violent extremism has become like a strong brand that does not need leadership anymore to exploit young people in vulnerable communities. The presence of civil society in communities is a key advantage. Participants noted that sustained State engagement with civil society has three immediate benefits: first, many civil society organizations carry the potential to help build a counter-narrative in communities and thereby help deflect and thwart the hateful narrative of terrorist organizations. Second, civil society activities improve conditions on the ground, which builds communities resilience against terrorism. Finally, civil society organizations have the potential to identify important causes of radicalization and help national authorities in adjusting and targeting national counter-terrorism policies accordingly. Participants recommended that States should support the intrinsic value of a vibrant, independent and diverse civil society, and not merely look at civil society organizations as an instrument for implementing State policy. States should also provide civil society with the space to carry out their activities. Here, States should make a conscious effort to seek inputs from civil society organizations on national counterterrorism legislation and practices. Given the large number of civil society activities, participants also raised the prospect of working with civil society aggregators that could manage the funding, evaluate impact and provide best practices and lessons learned on the value that civil society brings to counter-terrorism initiatives. Such an idea could help civil society coordinate and deliver more productively, without compromising their independence. 9

16 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation Finally, civil society groups and national Governments should carry out an inclusive policy dialogue in order to ensure that national counter-terrorism policies are necessary and proportionate to the threat, especially when it comes to the activities of humanitarian organizations. The recently concluded study by the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on the impact of counter-terrorism legislation on humanitarian activities was also discussed. 10

17 Session III Session V The role of victims of terrorism in countering the terrorist narrative No fight against terrorism is complete unless the voices of victims of terrorism are heard and their dignity recognized. The United Nations work on victims of terrorism is articulated under Pillar I of the Global Strategy where the dehumanization of victims of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is identified as one of the key issue that generates the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. The Pillar further identifies a number of measures aimed at addressing these conditions, namely to promote international solidarity in support of victims and foster the involvement of civil society in a global campaign against terrorism and for its condemnation. Addressing the human rights of victims of terrorism is essential, not only to assist victims to build their lives, but also to help reduce tensions in society that might themselves result in conditions conducive to recruitment to terrorism. Ultimately, this requires acknowledgement of their losses and recognition, of their rights to reparations, truth and justice, and their right to live free of fear and with the support they require. Ms. Navanethem Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights In the most recent review of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in June 2012, Member States agreed that victims of terrorism can and do play a vital role in countering the appeal of terrorism. Participants discussed ways to strengthen victims groups and integrate their activities into national counterterrorism efforts and how national governments can further contribute to protecting and assisting victims of terrorism in their criminal justice systems. At the same time, victims cannot become commodities and are deserving of every legal, financial and other forms of support from their Governments and the international community. Participants underscored the need for the international community to meaningfully recognize the rights of victims 11

18 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation of terrorism through the adoption of a single normative framework that acknowledges their suffering, protects them from further violence and abuse and provides adequate support and reparations. Several participants noted that the absence of an international treaty or obligation on protecting victims of terrorism was a weakness in the global struggle against terrorism. They discussed the key framework principles that should form the basis for an institutional response to support victims. Such principles should include, among other goals, a resolve to conduct independent and impartial investigations, ensure victims participation in fair and public trials and protect the privacy of survivors. Furthermore, in most terrorist attacks, terrorists belong to different nationalities. Therefore, the responsibility to furnish compensation should ideally be placed at the international level through such a treaty. Participants also discussed means on providing compensation to victims, and the possibility of convening an international conference to discuss practical ideas. 12

19 Session III Session VI Dialogue, Understanding and Countering the Appeal of Terrorism Participants pointed to the need for an objective assessment of the conditions that can give rise to extremism, violence and terrorism, and said policies based on such assessments should be implemented to address those conditions. Other speakers echoed the need for Member States to develop qualitative analytical capabilities, strengthening of inter-agency cooperation at the national, regional and international levels, and building nimble and well-crafted communication strategies to defeat terrorists. As terrorism itself is a multi-faceted challenge, the response should also be multi-faceted. Panellists and Member State representatives were one voice in calling for, among others, renewed efforts through education, particularly the teaching of peace education to advance tolerance, conflict resolution, and the need for dialogue that would together combat terrorism more effectively. As terrorists have abused the internet to spread their violent narratives and recruit more terrorists, concerted efforts to monitor and combat them in cyberspace was also strongly urged. Many Member States referred to the need to resolve long-standing conflicts if one of the key conditions conducive to terrorism was to be adequately addressed. They urged the international community, and the UN system, to resolve such conflicts in a just and equitable manner. Some Member States pointed out the need for inclusive participation on all sides in dialogues aimed at resolving conflicts. A common theme that emerged was that no religion, creed, culture, ethnicity or social status should be equated with terrorism. Such narratives are counter-productive and only reinforce ignorance and hate, causing immense harm to the global fight against terrorism. In this context, the eminent speakers and Member State representatives also raised a strong voice for strengthened and sustained dialogue between various religions, cultures and peoples as a way to dissolve barriers created by misconception and ignorance and to create a universal alliance of civilizations. Without such dialogue and understanding, extremists of all shades exploit vulnerable segments of society and advance their radical agenda. While there was strong support for measures to prevent vulnerable segments of society sliding into radicalism and extremism by focussing on conditions conducive to terrorism, some experts and Member States also pointed out the need to de-radicalize persons already on a violent path. Pertinent examples of deradicalization programmes were provided by eminent panellists representing UNICRI and the Hedayah Centre, who spoke of their work on deradicalizing and rehabilitating convicted terrorists. Prison settings, by virtually cutting off the terrorists from outside influences, provided a unique environment for implementing such programmes, experts noted. Many Member States supported the idea and expressed an interest in learning more about such programmes. 13

20 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation The thematic discussion in this session underlined the international community s strong political support for practical action to address some of the key conditions that are conducive to the spread of terrorism, as called for by the Global Strategy. The discussion also underscored the key role the United Nations, through the CTITF framework, had played in supporting Member States implement the Global Strategy, and there were calls for more such support. In his concluding remarks, the Chair also noted the work of the UNCCT, through the CTITF framework, in advancing the Global Strategy. 14

21 Session IV Closing Session The closing session was co-chaired by Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Political Affairs and Chairman of the CTITF, and Mr. Jürg Lindenmann, Counter-Terrorism Coordinator of the Government of Switzerland. Mr. Feltman thanked all high-level delegates for their participation, all panellists for their statements and all participants for their inputs and in making the Conference a success. He said that the Conference helped in establishing the priorities and linkages between the regional counterterrorism focal points, especially on the implementation of Pillar I of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. He said that the CTITF will commence work on the next phase, which will focus on implementation of the priorities identified at the four regional workshops, as well as at this Conference, and the delivery of concrete results. Mr. Lindenmann delivered the following co-chairs summary, which provided a snapshot of the key findings of the Conference. He noted that the Conference had three main objectives: (1) to bring together counterterrorism focal points in order to advance reflections on the strategic context in which Pillar I topics need to be prioritized for programming and implementation by Member States, regional organizations and civil society members; (2) to identify ways and develop partnerships to strengthen regional cooperation to further the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy; and (3) to emphasize the integrated nature of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, particularly the interdependence that exists between conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism and other pillars of the Strategy. Foremost amongst the Conference s key outcomes was the need to bring the developmental and security communities into greater contact and stronger partnerships. Participants discussed how education, good governance and economic opportunities help in preventing terrorism and extremism, and the vital need for States to develop the necessary capacity for furthering development as a key counter-terrorism component. In addition, participants called for tailoring counter-terrorism efforts in accordance to local and regional needs, and integrating civil society bodies to help in this effort. Only through greater participation and inputs from civil society can a State diagnose its counter-terrorism needs better and institute more peoplecentred policies that protect the lives and rights of all citizens. Finally, participants noted that victims of terrorism, as part of civil society, can also play a key role in preventing terrorism, including in cases of kidnapping for ransom, where human beings are reduced to financial commodities for terrorist purposes. While participants underscored that victims of terrorism deserve recognition in their own right, they also acknowledged that victims voices be crucial in countering the narrative of terrorism. Here, participants called for investing in victims capacity to engage with the media in order to help in the long-term struggle against terrorism, and specifically welcomed the efforts of the United Nations and other international entities, such as the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF), on 15

22 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation improving support and assistance programming intended for victims of terrorism. They also called for an international instrument on the rights of victims of terrorism Co-Chairs Summary 14 June 2013;, Switzerland Closing The International Counter-Terrorism Focal Points Conference on Addressing Conditions Conducive to the Spread of Terrorism and on Promoting Regional Cooperation, held on June 2013 at the United Nations Office at, was co-organized by the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) Office of the United Nations and the Government of Switzerland. The Conference was opened and co-chaired by Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Political Affairs of the United Nations and Chairman of the CTITF and H.E. Mr. Didier Burkhalter, Vice-President of the Federal Council and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland. Vice-President Mr. Burkhalter also delivered a keynote statement at the Opening Session. The Conference was attended by over 350 participants, representing 130 United Nations Member States, 15 international and regional organizations and 15 civil society members. The Conference is an important international event to further the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy at the national and regional levels. It follows other activities carried out by Member States, United Nations entities and key international and regional organizations since the adoption of the Strategy in September The Conference built on the results of four regional workshops in Indonesia, Ethiopia, Namibia, and Bangladesh. The workshops took place over the last 30 months and were organized by the CTITF Office, in partnership with a select group of regional States and relevant CTITF entities, and were supported by the Governments of Austria, Germany, Norway, Turkey, Switzerland and the United States. A fifth regional workshop under the same initiative is expected to take place in Nigeria in July The Conference had three main objectives: (1) to bring together counter-terrorism focal points in order to advance reflections on the strategic context in which Pillar I topics need to be prioritized for programming and implementation by Member States, regional organizations and civil society members; (2) to identify ways and develop partnerships to strengthen regional cooperation to further the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy; and (3) to emphasize the integrated nature of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, particularly the interdependence that exists between conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism and other pillars of the Strategy. Some of the key elements from the proceedings of the Conference are: 1. Member States, representatives of regional and sub-regional organizations, United Nations offices and agencies and civil society reaffirmed their confidence in and support for the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy as the universally accepted policy framework. The comprehensive 16

23 Session V and integrated implementation at the national and regional levels of the Strategy is vital in the global fight against terrorism. 2. Participants recognized the important role of the Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) in bringing together relevant United Nations entities and international organizations to enhance coordination and coherence on multilateral counter-terrorism activities and support Member States in the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. Participants also called for further strengthening coordination among the United Nations counter-terrorism partners. 3. In many regions, terrorism is a trans-boundary threat and therefore requires coordinated responses of the States of the region concerned. Terrorist financing through drugs and arms trafficking was mentioned as such an emerging cross-border phenomenon. Participants heard about the challenges posed by terrorism in Africa and Asia in particular. The nature, levels and mechanics of regional counter-terrorism cooperation vary across regions. Regional organizations can play a useful role in supporting such implementation through consensus-building, establishment of professional or technical coordination and information-exchange mechanisms, as well as practical cooperation in police, border and legal matters. Participants stressed the role of the United Nations as a partner in enhancing regional links and in offering a multilateral platform. 4. In order to effectively fight terrorism, development and respect for human rights must be linked with the security dimension. Development and security are mutually reinforcing. Education, good governance and economic opportunities help in preventing terrorism and extremism. Greater national capacity is therefore required for furthering development. At the same time, a secure environment is one of the pre-requisites for promoting development. Protecting human rights and ensuring respect for the rule of law contribute to preventing terrorism. 5. A functioning and human rights-compliant criminal justice system is vital for a secure environment and promoting development. Building credible public institutions is essential. The prosecution of perpetrators of terrorist acts, in compliance with human rights law, is critical to both preventing and combating terrorism. 6. A counterterrorism approach that excludes communities can be a driver for radicalization that leads to terrorism. Conversely, an inclusive approach to civil society contributes to reducing the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. 7. While the Strategy has a global scope, counter-terrorism efforts need to be tailored to local realities. Partnerships with civil society organizations and institutions operating at the grassroot level are therefore critical. Civil society can play a significant multiplier role in advancing global counterterrorism objectives, particularly on issues of prevention. 8. Preserving basic liberties and countering extremism cannot be considered as mutually exclusive. As many countries have demonstrated, counter-terrorism measures should co-exist with the protection of the operational space for civil society, which has intrinsic value with regard to the implementation of the Global Strategy. While terrorist abuses of civil liberties for the purposes of incitement and recruitment are appropriate areas for government concern and potential action, governments also need to promote the exercise of the rights to freedom of association, speech and assembly, and privacy, as guaranteed under UN human rights instruments. 17

24 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation 9. Victims of terrorism, as part of civil society, can play a key role in preventing terrorism. The Strategy identifies the dehumanization of victims of terrorism as one of the key issues that generates the conditions conducive to the spread of terrorism. This is also true in cases of kidnapping for ransom, where human beings are reduced to financial commodities for terrorist purposes. 10. Victims of terrorism are a constant reminder to the international community that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations committed by whomever and wherever is a threat to international peace and security, and development. International community can make concerted efforts to assist victims in their rehabilitations and protection of their rights. 11. Since the adoption of the Global Strategy, the voices of victims have been amplified beyond national borders. The UN and other international entities, such as the Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF), have contributed significantly to address the needs of victims of terrorism. They should step up their efforts to provide, upon request, technical assistance for building the capacity of Member States in the development and implementation of programmes of assistance and support for victims of terrorism. It was further mentioned that a specific international instrument on the rights of victims of terrorism will strengthen international efforts towards an effective global counter-terrorism strategy. 12. Victims of terrorism deserve recognition in their own right. Their suffering should not be exploited. At the same time, one cannot ignore that the messages of victims may be crucial in countering the narrative of terrorism. The challenge here is to give victims a voice in ways that do not run counter to their own sentiments, values and interests. 13. To highlight the plight of victims of terrorism, support for their cause needs to be promoted. Developing and enhancing the skills, knowledge and capacity of victims of terrorism to interact with, engage, and discuss through various forms of the media, including through the use of both conventional and social media, will mitigate the effects of a terrorist attack. These messages, stories and experiences have to be shared with a larger audience, including vulnerable communities and groups, to counteract the messages of violent extremists. 14. Stereotyping, intolerance, conflicts, inequality, discrimination, social marginalization, political and economic exclusion and absence of good governance often provide the enabling environment for terrorism to grow. In such situations, law-enforcement and judicial measures alone do not suffice to counter terrorism, but need to be supplemented with more long-term measures to foster dialogue and understanding. 15. Participants stressed that addressing the provisions of Pillar I will need strengthened efforts to dispel the misunderstandings and misconceptions among peoples, cultures and religions by fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding towards building an alliance of civilizations. It will also require developing and implementing effective de-radicalization programmes for those who have already been radicalized. Over the course of the two days, participants identified challenges, priorities and ways to move forward in the implementation of Pillar I of the United Nations Global Counterterrorism Strategy at the global, regional and local levels. Efforts need to be redoubled in achieving practical results on the ground in a coherent, coordinated and integrated manner. This requires continued dialogue and common action by all implementation partners at all levels. 18

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27 Closing Session Annex I Agenda of the Conference Day 1: 13 June, :30 11:00 Registration of participants 11:00 12:30 Session I - Opening Session: Strengthening the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Session Chairperson: Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General, Department of Political Affairs, and Chairman of CTITF, United Nations Keynote Speech: H.E. Mr. Didier Burkhalter, Federal Councillor and Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland H.E. Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Director-General of the United Nations Office at (UNOG) H.E. Ms. Navanethem Pillay, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Eminent Speakers: 13:00 14:15 Lunch Break H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh H.E. Mr. Olugbenga Ashiru, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria Statement of : H.E. Mr. R.M. Marty M. Natalegawa, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Indonesia (to be delivered by H.E. Mr. Triyono Wibowo, Permanent Representative of Indonesia to the United Nations and other international organizations in ) Statement of : H.E. Mr. Immanuel Ngatjizeko, Minister of Safety and Security, Namibia (to be delivered by Mr. Madjumo Simon Maruta, Charge d Affaires, Permanent Mission of Namibia to the United Nations and other international organizations in ) H.E. Mr. Minelik Alemu Getahun, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations and other international organizations in H.E. Mr. Alexandr Zmeevskiy, Special Representative of the President, Russian Federation 21

28 Secretary-General s Symposium on International Counter-Terrorism Cooperation 14:30 16:00 Session II: The importance of regional cooperation in the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy Session Chairman: Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General, Department of Political Affairs, and Chairman of CTITF, United Nations Keynote Speaker: H.E. Mr. Olugbenga Ashiru, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria Mr. Mike Smith Executive Director, Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) Mr. Jehangir Khan Director a.i., Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) Office Mr. Michael Merker, Head of Counter-Terrorism Team, European External Action Service, European Union Mr. Ameur Dahmani, Head of Unit, African Centre for the Study and Research on Terrorism (CAERT) Mr. Reinhard Uhrig, Action Against Terrorism Unit, Organization for Security and Cooperation (OSCE) 16:00 17:30 Session III: Linkages between development and security Session Chairman: Mr. Eric Rosand, Senior Advisor and GCTF Coordinator, Bureau of Counter-Terrorism, US Department of State Keynote Speaker: H.E. Dr. Dipu Moni, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh H.E. Ambassador Abdul Samad Minty, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the United Nations at Mr. Neil Buhne, Director, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Major-General S. Y. Bello, Coordinator, Counter-Terrorism Department, Office of the National Security Advisor, Nigeria Mr. Khalid Koser, Centre for Security Policy 18:00 Reception hosted by the Government of Switzerland at Bar Serpent, Building E, United Nations Office at Day 2: 14 June, :00 11:30 Session IV: The role of civil society in assisting the implementation of Pillar I Session Chairperson: Mr. Peter Knoope, Director, International Centre for Counter- Terrorism, The Hague Keynote Speaker: Statement of H.E. Mr. Immanuel Ngatjizeko, Minister of Safety and Security, Namibia (to be delivered by Mr. Madjumo Simon Maruta, Charge d Affaires, Permanent Mission of Namibia to the United Nations and other international organizations in ) Mr. Richard Barrett, The Soufan Group and New America Foundation Ms. Lia van Broekhoven, Executive Director, Human Security Collective Mr. Maajid Nawaz, Co-founder and Chairman, Quilliam Foundation Ms. Lisa Oldring, Human Rights Officer, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights 22

29 Closing Session 11:30 13:00 Session V: The role of victims of terrorism in countering the terrorist narrative Session Chairperson: Ms. Sonia Ramos Piñeiro, Director, Directorate-General for the Support to Victims of Terrorism, Spain Ministry of Interior H.E. Ambassador Tunç Üğdül, Director General for Research and Security, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Turkey Mr. Jehangir Khan Director a.i. Counter-Terrorism Implementation Task Force (CTITF) Mr. Ben Emmerson United Nations Special Rapporetur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism Ms. Marta Requena, Chief, Terrorism Prevention Branch, UNODC 13:00 15:00 Lunch Break 15:00 17:00 Session VI: Dialogue, understanding and countering the appeal of terrorism Session Chairperson: H.E. Ambassador Abdullah Al-Muallimi, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations and Chairman of the Advisory Board of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) Keynote speaker: H.E. Mr. Minelik Alemu Getahun, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the United Nations and other international organizations in Mr. Alexander Evans, Coordinator, Al-Qaida/Taliban Monitoring Team United Nations Mr. Jonathan Lucas, United Nations Inter-regional Crime and Justice Research Institute Ms. Clare Stark, Strategic Planning Specialist, United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Mr. Maqsoud Kruse, Chief Executive Officer, Hedayah Centre, Abu Dhabi 15:00 17:00 Summary of conclusions and closing session Keynote remarks and summary by Chairperson: H.E. Ambassador Jürg Lindenmann, Coordinator for Counter-Terrorism, Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland Closing remarks: Mr. Jeffrey Feltman, Under-Secretary-General, Department of Political Affairs, and Chairman of CTITF, United Nations 23