Alexander Zuev, the Acting Deputy Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, emphasized the importance of leveraging the opportunities of the digital age while considering risks and upholding human rights.
Discussing artificial intelligence, he stated: "This technology opens up a real opportunity to prevent terrorist activity — from early detection of dangerous narratives to more targeted actions that take community opinions into account. However, it can also be used to spread misinformation and for recruitment, which is particularly dangerous for youth."
The UN representative added that the organization aims to enhance practical support for states in the face of new threats associated with the digital environment.
"This includes new areas of work related to artificial intelligence and online gaming systems," he added.According to Zuev, such measures complement traditional approaches to combating misinformation and preventing radicalization among youth.
In response to a question about the reintegration of former fighters, he stressed the need to adhere to legal norms and conduct investigations to hold violators accountable in accordance with national and international standards.
Additionally, he highlighted the situation of women and children associated with fighters and cited the efforts of the governments of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the reintegration and social rehabilitation of families of former fighters, as citizens of these countries were among those recruited.
The International Day aims to unite states, UN structures, and various partners — from civil society and religious leaders to business and academic circles — to jointly combat the conditions conducive to terrorism.
Photo on the main page is illustrative: Unsplash/F. Katzenberger.
