Algeria has emphasized the urgent need to restructure the current international system for combating terrorism, seeking to pave the way for more effective global efforts against this growing threat.
During an open session involving the leaders of three primary UN committees on counter-terrorism—Committee 1267 (focused on ISIS and Al-Qaeda), Committee 1540 (dedicated to preventing the proliferation of weapons), and Committee 1373 (tasked with combating terrorism)—Amar Benjamaâ, Algeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN and Chair of Committee 1373, delivered a comprehensive report on the committee’s activities.
Key Achievements and Challenges
Ambassador Benjamaâ highlighted significant progress over the past year, including strengthened cooperation with UN resident coordinators and the completion of nine evaluation visits to member states. He also detailed advancements in addressing threats posed by drones and the development of tools to assess the effectiveness of counter-terrorism measures.
Algeria’s Vision and Experience
Drawing on Algeria’s history, Benjamaâ stressed the country’s unique perspective on counter-terrorism, shaped by its fight against extremism during the 1990s. He criticized the current approach of the UN Security Council, describing it as ineffective and calling for a comprehensive overhaul of the global counter-terrorism framework to ensure better coordination and collaboration.
Addressing Regional and Global Gaps
Benjamaâ also criticized the international community for its misplaced focus, stating that counter-terrorism efforts should prioritize regions like the Sahel and Lake Chad, which are most affected by terrorism, rather than countries far removed from the crisis zones. He noted that extreme poverty, limited opportunities, and weak institutions create fertile ground for extremism, urging the adoption of a balanced approach combining security and development.
In his remarks on Africa, the Algerian diplomat stressed the need for genuine resource allocation, effective cooperation, and robust regional strategies. He called for legislative and operational capacity-building in vulnerable states, highlighting that Africa cannot afford delays in addressing these challenges.
Algeria’s Commitment to Counter-Terrorism
Benjamaâ reaffirmed Algeria’s unwavering commitment to fighting terrorism, expressing readiness to share its extensive experience with international partners. He underscored Algeria’s leadership role as Chair of the UN Counter-Terrorism Committee and as a member of the Security Council, striving for improved coordination and effectiveness in combating this global menace.
“As Algeria continues its work, we remain firmly committed to building a safer future, knowing that the future is not what happens to us but what we create together,” said Benjamaâ.
Global Relevance
The meeting, chaired by the United Kingdom, comes at a critical time, as terrorist threats intensify in Africa, new technologies are increasingly employed in attacks, and global instability persists, particularly in Afghanistan. Algeria’s call for systemic reform echoes the urgent need for a united, effective global response to these evolving challenges.
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Author: Nor-Eleslam
Algeria calls for reform of the global counter-terrorism system.
