New York Feb. 10, 2025, Somalia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, H.E. Abukar Dahir Osman, addressed the Security Council during a briefing on threats to International Peace and Security Caused by Terrorist Acts. In his speech, Amb. Abukar Osman emphasized the growing complexity of the global threat posed by terrorism and called for greater international cooperation to combat it.
The speech began with Amb. Abukar Osman expressing gratitude to Under-Secretary-General Vladimir Voronkov and Director Gherman for their valuable insights into the evolving nature of terrorist threats. Osman noted that despite international efforts to curb terrorism, groups remain resilient and continue to adapt, using new technologies and exploiting regional instability.
The international community achievements in combating terrorism are significant, yet our work is far from complete, Amb. Osman said. He pointed out that terrorist organizations are increasingly exploiting regional crises, advancing technologically, and leveraging social grievances to further their objectives. This shift, he warned, has made the threat more complex and requires a dynamic response from global partners.
A key aspect of Amb. Abukar Osman’s message was the rising trend of terrorism across borders, particularly the growing influence of transnational groups like Da’ish (ISIS) in regions such as Somalia. Amb. Osman highlighted that Somalia, despite facing significant challenges, has successfully carried out military operations with international support to neutralize foreign ISIL affiliates, providing a model for counter-terrorism cooperation.
Somalia’s response offers a promising example of effective countermeasures, Amb. Abukar Osman stated, adding that these efforts have demonstrated the importance of international collaboration. He underscored that joint security initiatives and military operations are essential in confronting the growing threat of terrorism, which increasingly transcends national boundaries.
In addition to military responses, Osman stressed the need for a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to countering terrorism. He emphasized that counter-terrorism efforts must go beyond immediate tactical responses and focus on the root causes of extremism, such as poverty and unemployment. He pointed out that sustainable development is critical in undermining the conditions that give rise to terrorist ideologies.
Preventing terrorism is as important as responding to it, Amb. Abukar Osman remarked, urging the international community to address the socioeconomic factors that fuel extremism. He added that technology, while providing new challenges as terrorist groups exploit digital platforms, can also be a powerful tool in combating terrorism. Osman called for sophisticated technological responses to counter terrorism, while ensuring respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
A vital part of Somalia’s approach, Osman noted, is the protection of civilians, especially vulnerable populations, during counter-terrorism efforts. He warned that countermeasures must not inadvertently create new grievances that could be exploited by terrorist groups.
Osman concluded his speech by calling for stronger international legal frameworks to counter terrorism and their consistent implementation by all nations. He also reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to upholding international law, human rights, and fundamental freedoms in the fight against terrorism.
Terrorism is a global challenge that affects all humanity, regardless of borders, beliefs, or background, he said, urging the UN and member states to maintain their commitment to counter-terrorism while ensuring respect for the principles that define the international community.
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