OSCE seminar in Skopje focuses on countering violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism

SKOPJE, 25 June 2014 – The political and socio-economic factors that lead to terrorist radicalization and recruitment were the focus of an OSCE seminar which started today in Skopje, and brought together some 50 participants, including security experts from eight countries and representatives of state agencies and civil society.

International experts and representatives of national authorities and civil society will discuss a broader understanding of the threat of violent extremism and radicalization that lead to terrorism, particularly recognizing the linkages between security and respect for human rights.

The meeting will also explore how public-private partnerships and community policing can help to effectively prevent and combat terrorism.

“The seminar promotes a multi-dimensional approach, identifying and implementing an effective human rights compliant, gender-sensitive strategy and drawing on public-private partnerships,” said Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje, Ambassador Ralf Breth.

Interior Minister Gordana Jankulovska said: “Security risks arising from terrorism, its specifics and complexity, impose the need of a careful approach towards it, including early detection measures, as well as preventive and effective institutional engagement for its suppression.”

US Ambassador Paul D. Wohlers said that the challenge faced in countering violent extremist ideology extends to finding new and unique ways to address the problem. “This requires seeking innovative ways to provide police, educators, religious and other community leaders, and other relevant government and non-government personnel with the necessary training and practical tools to design and implement effective programs and policies against extremism,” he said.

The event is co-organized by the OSCE Transnational Threats Department and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, in co-operation with Ministry of Internal Affairs, and with support from the government of United States.

It is one in a series of national seminars organized by the OSCE in 2012-2014 on countering violent extremism and radicalization.