Why preventing violent extremism ‘should be at the heart of our work’

Here we take a look at the latest statement regarding extremism from Ambassador Peter Wilson, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the Security Council briefing.

Earlier this week, ambassador and the UK’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations (UN) Peter Wilson, spoke about the importance of committees performing a crucial role in the continuous fight against terrorism.

Addressing the Security Council, he thanked the Counter Terrorism Committee, the 1267 Committee, and the 1540 Committee, for their intricate and vital work.

Mr Wilson warned about the threat violent extremism poses, advising that professionals working with people who are vulnerable to radicalisation should keep the prevention of this at the heart of their work.

The recent attack on the Manchester arena and on those at Westminster is just one of the many examples of violent extremism, and the threat of terror is constantly evolving, he said.

“Just as terrorists pursue every means possible to carry out their hateful acts, so too must we pursue every available avenue to stop them. The three committees are an important part of that effort.”

He mentioned the work of the Counter Terrorism Committee and Counter Terrorism Executive Directorate, and their efforts to combat illicit trafficking, the financing of terrorism, abuse of the internet and other forms of communication.

Mr Wilson also talked about the 1267 Committee and its work to keep the sanctions list up to date, ensuring that individuals, groups and entities joining or affiliating with Al Qaeda or Da’esh, are listed.

Finally, he also said that thanks to the 1540 Committee, tangible steps are being taken to prevent weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists and non-state actors.

“To defeat terrorism, we all need to play our part,” he told those at the Security Council meeting. “The committees can’t do it alone. That’s why the UK has been such a champion in this Council for aviation security, including through resolution 2309.

“Protecting civil aviation should be high on everyone’s counter-terrorist agenda. We all need to follow the international standards and recommended practices for aviation security developed by the International Civilian Aviation Organisation. These are designed to keep pace with the evolving nature of the threat.”

He also went on to say that Member States should recognise, support and draw on the co-operation between the UN and ICAO by taking steps to strengthen this.

Addressing those at the meeting, he concluded that it is not enough to simply counter terrorism, but prevention of violent extremism must be at the heart of all efforts.