Recent attacks in SL, NZ, Kenya underscore need to work closely

The recent despicable terror attacks in Kenya, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, among others, are tragic reminders of the scourge of terrorism and underscore the need to work closely with partners across the UN system and beyond, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said.   At the launch of the United Nations Countering Terrorist Travel Programme in New York on Tuesday, the Secretary-General said there has been a dramatic movement of terrorists to and from conflict zones around the world over the past years.   

“Just two years ago, we estimated that over 40,000 foreign terrorist fighters from more than 110 countries may have travelled to join terrorist groups in the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq,” he said.  

He said following the territorial defeat of IS, many terrorists were trying to return home or relocate to safe havens or other troubled parts of the world.   

“Many are well trained and could carry out future terrorist attacks. Others hope to radicalize and recruit new followers to their cause. They, as well as those they inspire, represent a major transnational threat. Detecting and disrupting these terrorists and other high-risk criminals prior to them carrying out an attack is a high priority for the international community,” he said.  
In a statement, the UN said the new programme would help Member States collect, process and share travel data with other competent national and international authorities, with full respect for privacy and other fundamental freedoms.  

“We know that policies that fully respect human rights are essential in tackling violent extremism. This information sharing will enhance the abilities of Member States to effectively detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences, including their related travel. Importantly, this will also enable the detection and disruption of human trafficking and other forms of serious organized crime and to faster identify their victims. The United Nations family is ready to assist in protecting and ensuring the rights of all victims whose interests are served by this project,” he said.