The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in partnership with Central Asian States, convened a pivotal international conference titled "Strengthening Security for Stability: Mitigating Emerging Cross-Border Terrorism Threats in Central Asia" in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.
This high-level event brought together senior officials, law enforcement, and policymakers from across Central Asia, as well as representatives from key international organizations, including the United Nations Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy (UNRCO), the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (SCO RATS), the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), the UN Regional Centre for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA), the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee AQ/ISIL/Taliban Monitoring Team, and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
In his welcoming speech, H.E. Mr. York Schuegraf, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Republic of Tajikistan, emphasized that cross-border terrorism threatens not only our security but also the stability of democratic institutions and the rule of law. He reaffirmed Germany's commitment to addressing its root causes, such as poverty and inequality, through a holistic approach aligned with the UNODC's efforts. The Ambassador highlighted that this conference provides a vital platform to share best practices and develop strategies to build resilient communities, ensuring lasting peace and stability in Central Asia.
The conference was organized in response to escalating cross-border terrorism threats, particularly from extremist groups operating in Afghanistan, as well as the growing challenges of violent extremism and radicalization. Regional cooperation and strengthened border security have never been more critical in ensuring the stability of Central Asia.
The conference addressed critical areas of counter-terrorism collaboration, including the sharing of best practices, strengthening law enforcement and judicial cooperation, developing human rights-based reintegration strategies for foreign fighters, and enhancing border security to effectively prevent the spread of terrorism and extremism in the region.
"Central Asia has made significant strides in fostering peace and stability, but we must remain vigilant against the persistent threats of terrorism and violent extremism. The evolving nature of these threats, including the rise of new extremist ideologies and the increasing use of technology by terrorist groups, calls for a comprehensive and coordinated response. This conference provides an invaluable platform to exchange knowledge and explore innovative solutions. UNODC is committed to supporting Central Asia in building resilient societies and strengthening regional cooperation to counter transnational terrorism." - said Mr. Oliver Stolpe, UNODC Regional Representative for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran, and Pakistan.
UNODC’s ongoing efforts in the region, supported by the Governments of Germany and Norway, include initiatives such as the "Enhancing Border Management and Security” project and the "Supporting Deradicalization and Preventing Terrorism" program. These initiatives aim to bolster both national and regional capabilities to combat terrorism while safeguarding human rights and promoting the rule of law.
As Central Asia continues to face significant transnational threats, the conference served as a crucial platform for developing strategies to enhance regional security cooperation and ensure preparedness in addressing emerging terrorism-related challenges.
UNODC’s initiatives in the region have reached over 15 countries, providing training and support to over 2,000 law enforcement officers and judicial officials to enhance counter-terrorism efforts.
