Statement: International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism
Written by Tshepo Tlhacoane
Statement: International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism
The Amman Center for Human Rights Studies (ACHRS) would like to use this occasion, the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, to call on states to strengthen the rule of law, and to create and strengthen independent, democratic institutions.
Although states are not the main perpetrators of violent extremism, individuals and groups who turn to violent extremism often base their grievances on the actions or inactions of the state. Some examples of these grievances are:
- Corruption and bad governance
- Human rights violations
- Actual or perceived injustice
- Lack of the rule of law, and
- Deprivation and inequality.
In addition to calling for the strengthening of the rule of law and democratic institutions, ACHRS demands that states, particularly in the Arab Region, stop the practice of using anti-terrorism laws to jail and execute political opponents, dissidents, and human rights activists and advocates. This practice not only violates the human rights of innocent people, it also creates the environment for individuals and groups to resort to violent extremism.
Finally, ACHRS calls on states to use education as a tool to combat violent extremism. Young people are generally the first affected by violent extremism, and through recruitment, are often the perpetrators of violent extremism. Education, especially of the youth, combats violent extremism by teaching respect for human rights and diversity, fostering critical thinking skills, promoting digital and media literacy, and developing behavioural and socioemotional skills that contribute to peaceful existence and tolerance.
Click here to read more about how education can counter violent extremism on this #PVEDay.
