Statement by Representative of Slovenia to the UN Security Council Ambassador Samuel Žbogar at the meeting on the threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts

Thank you, Mr. President.

I also want to thank Under-Secretary-General Voronkov and the Executive Director Gherman for their briefings. Our thanks also go to the teams at UNOCT, CTED and the Monitoring team for the preparation of the reports under consideration.

Mr. President,

On the threat of Da’esh, let me make the following three points:

First, Slovenia reiterates its concern regarding the adaptability and resilience of Da’esh and its affiliates. This is happening despite relatively successful counter-terrorism operations and high levels of leadership attrition. The ever more decentralized operation structure means kinetic operations will have only limited impact on the overall threat. While these operations are essential for short-term security, new multi-layered approaches focusing on prevention will become even more essential.

We therefore reiterate the need for comprehensive, inclusive and gender-responsive approaches. Approaches that address drivers of terrorism and violent extremism conducive to terrorism in accordance with international law, human rights and the rule of law.

These efforts need to include the whole-of-government and the whole-of-society approach and keep abreast of trends in the functioning of terrorist networks. They need to be particularly focused on youth and their education, as young people are becoming the main target of radicalization. The role of women and women-led organizations is pivotal in prevention and de-radicalization activities and should be recognized.

Digital tools that are often used to radicalize and recruit should be used for prevention on one hand and for offering alternatives, such as education, on the other.

Second, we note the recent developments in Syria and the efforts by the interim authorities to stabilize the country and unify the security forces. Since taking the power, they showed significant success in limiting the influence of external actors, although a lot of work remains to be done.

We share the concern of member states that Da’esh could exploit security vacuums to increase its strength in the region. The interim authorities should aim to prevent resurgence of Da’esh and other terrorist groups and secure stockpiles of weapons, in particular chemical weapons and any advanced weapons. We cannot afford they land in the hands of terrorists.

Third, the 1267 ISIL (Da’esh) & Al Qaida sanctions regime remains an important tool in support to counter-terrorism efforts and the fight against Da’esh. It is encouraging to see more and more member states recognizing the benefit of this regime and considering its utilization. We reiterate – for any sanctions to work, they need to be duly implemented.

Mr. President,

Let me conclude by acknowledging the extensive efforts and projects by different UN entities and partners, under coordination of the UNOCT. It is imperative that member states strengthen the cooperation among themselves directly and with the help of regional and international platforms. As terrorism seeks to divide us with fear, we must respond united, with courage.

Thank you.

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