‘We must be more vigilant than ever,’ Guterres said on the first International Day to Stop Violent Extremism

The call comes from him message to mark the first time International Day Against Violent Extremism and When in favor of Terrorismwas established in December by the UN General Assembly.

Mr. Guterres described terrorism as an affront to humanity because it undermines the values ​​that bind us together.

Terrorism also threatens collective efforts to promote peace and security, protect human rights, provide humanitarian aid, and promote sustainable development.

Fertile ground for hate

“We must be more vigilant than ever,” he said, noting that “terrorist groups and violent extremists are finding fertile ground on the internet to spew their wicked venom.”

He said neo-Nazi, white supremacist movements are becoming more and more dangerous and are now a leading internal security threat in some countries, as well as a threat. fastest growing.

Prevention and inclusion

States must act to meet the challenge through prevention and by addressing the underlying conditions that fuel terrorism in the first place.

He stressed the importance of inclusion and ensuring that counterterrorism strategies reflect many voices — especially minorities, women and young people.

He added that human rights should be at the core of any anti-terrorism policy.

“Today and every day, let’s work together to building more peaceful, inclusive and stable societies in which terrorism and violent extremism homeless,” said the Secretary General.