Asia-Europe Counter-Terrorism Dialogue: Countering Daesh Extremism in Asia and Europe

Asia-Europe Counter-Terrorism Dialogue: Countering Daesh Extremism in Asia and Europe

1. SINGAPORE (GMT+8) Recent attacks and foiled attempts in European and Asian cities are indicators of the rising terror threats in both regions. While calls for tighter security measures have become stronger, it is necessary to enhance international cooperation and contain Daesh extremism through comprehensive actions by all stakeholders, including the Muslim communities themselves.

2. In order to support the exchange of views and experiences in counter-measures from Europe and Asia, the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR) at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Ltd. (KAS) in Singapore, have produced a new publication entitled Countering Daesh Extremism – European and Asian Responses.

3. The publication analyses recent developments concerning Daesh extremism and their implications on societies in Asia and Europe. The 18 articles share and discuss current and possible future threats, identify the target groups vulnerable to extreme militant ideology and examine the various recruitment channels. The counter-measures and de-radicalisation as well as rehabilitation efforts adopted by various governments are also highlighted. Special attention is given to Daesh-linked activities in the respective countries, reactions by the local Muslim communities, and possible future developments as well as responses.

4. The publication will be launched on Tuesday, 1 November 2016, by Ambassador Ong Keng Yong, Executive Deputy Chairman of RSIS, during the keynote session of the dialogue. To coincide with the publication launch, the keynote addresses on “New Threat Landscape in Asia and Europe” will be delivered by YAB Dato’ Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Home Affairs of Malaysia; and Dr Günter Krings MdB, Parliamentary State Secretary at the Federal Ministry of the Interior of the Federal Republic of Germany.

5. The Asia-Europe Counter Terrorism Dialogue will be held on 31 October and 1 November 2016 and will feature international speakers and security experts from both Asia and Europe. In addition to heads of counter-terrorism, the Dialogue will also be attended by law enforcement, military and national security personnel.