Guterres urges international community to help Africa combat terrorism

Abstract

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres says the international community should mobilize resources in support of African countries as they strive to balance security and development. Addressing the African Union’s Peace and Security Council that was held Saturday evening under the theme; ‘Towards a comprehensive approach to combat the transnational threat of terrorism in Africa’ the UN Chief said no single nation, institution, or organization can defeat terrorism in Africa or anywhere else by itself. First, by addressing the deficit in international counter-terrorism cooperation at the global, regional and national levels. He told African leaders in attendance that in June, he will convene the first-ever UN Summit of Heads of Counter-Terrorism Agencies to build on Member States’ priorities and their discussion in the meeting. The second success in countering terrorism will be greatly advanced through ratification of existing legal counter-terrorism instruments, conventions and protocols, he said, adding the UN was ready to provide the support needed to the African Union and Member States to implement these instruments. Fourth and finally, Mr. Guterres said; “we must place a special focus on expanding opportunities for young people, especially since youth under the age of 25 form the largest demographic group in most developing countries and they are often the ones most at risk of being recruited and radicalized by terrorists”. He said strategic investments in education and employment for young men and women were essential.