OSCE Centre in Astana supports discussion on countering terrorism

ASTANA, 22 November 2012 – An OSCE-supported one-day international conference on countering terrorism, which brought together some 50 parliamentarians, international and national experts, academics, and representatives of law enforcement agencies, was held at premises of Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan in Astana today.

The event was organized by the OSCE Centre in Astana in co-operation with the Union of Criminologists of Kazakhstan and the Committee for legislation and judicial reform under the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan.

The participants discussed the phenomenon of terrorism and contemporary methods to counter it. Discussion focused on the socio-economic roots of terrorism, the need to respect human rights and uphold rule of law while conducting anti-terrorism activities, as well as the need for interaction between the state authorities and civil society aimed at preventing and combating terrorism.

“Terrorism cannot and must not be fought by one state alone. Only in close co-operation and with joint efforts can tangible results be achieved,” said Ambassador Natalia Zarudna, the Head of OSCE Centre in Astana addressing the conference participants.

“Anti-terrorist activities that violate international human rights standards are counterproductive. Upholding human rights is not only compatible with anti-terrorism activities, it is an indivisible part of the struggle against terrorism.”

Ambassador Zarudna also added that according to the OSCE core documents, the respect and promotion of human rights are in and of themselves the most effective instruments of terrorism prevention.

The event is part of OSCE Centre in Astana’s work to assist the host country’s efforts in the prevention of and fight against terrorism.