UN approves Iraq’s request to designate international day to combat extremism
The United Nations sign located outside the United Nations Office in Geneva. Photo: iStock
Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The United Nations marks the first ever International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when conducive to terrorism, according to a press statement issued by the United Nations.
In December 2022, the UN General Assembly designated this international day to advocate the dangers of violent extremism and the international cooperation required to prevent it, the statement mentioned.
The designation itself was introduced by the representative of Iraq, emphasizing how Iraq has suffered at the hands of terrorist groups, the statement elaborated.
Preventing and countering violent extremism conducive to terrorism is a priority for the UN family in Iraq, and an integrated approach is required to ensure sustainable community solutions, according to the statement.
Ensuring factors that contribute to economic marginalization and inequality are addressed, and the provision of mental health support and livelihood opportunities, are key to mitigating the risks of violent extremism, the statement explained.
Violent extremism in Iraq has led to widespread devastation and mass displacement, with marginalized groups such as women, children, young people and persons with disabilities disproportionately affected, the statement clarified.
As part of efforts to build peace and mitigate factors that compel people to leave their area or country of origin, the UN in Iraq supports a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to address underlying factors that contribute to increasing the risk of violent extremism, the statement mentioned.
The UN in Iraq, in partnership with the Iraqi government, is committed to supporting women and children, religious leaders, youth, educators, local authorities, civil society, and all members of Iraqi communities to prevent violent extremism and promote peaceful coexistence, the statement added.