Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), emphasized that terrorism and violent extremism represent some of the most dangerous threats to global peace and security, affecting countries and communities across all cultures and religions indiscriminately. He noted that addressing the issue of terrorism requires a global commitment to cooperation, strategic knowledge exchange, and the development of specialized skills that adapt to continuously evolving threats.

This statement was part of Dr. AlMalik’s address today, Friday, October 25, 2024, during the graduation ceremony the 2024 Specialised Counter-Terrorism Investigations Training Programme (STOCTI). The Program was held at ICESCO’s headquarters in Rabat and organized by the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and Training in Africa, in collaboration with Al Akhawayn University in Morocco. The event was attended by senior United Nations officials, ambassadors, and experts in the field. Certificates of graduation were awarded to 22 trainees from seven African countries.

Dr. AlMalik also reviewed ICESCO’s efforts over the years to counter violent extremism through a variety of initiatives, programs, and activities, including the International Conference on Combating Violent Extremism, which ICESCO headquarters hosted in its third edition in November 2023, as well as the launch of the “Encyclopedia on Deconstructing Extremist Discourse” in partnership with the Mohammadia League of Scholars in Morocco. The Publication aims to dismantle the ideological framework that underpins extremist rhetoric, foster values of moderation and tolerance, and bolster community resilience against extremism.

He further highlighted ICESCO’s work in promoting intercultural dialogue and the significant role that educational, religious, and intellectual institutions play in establishing an ethical value system based on a forward-looking scientific approach. Moreover, he warned that the increasing use of communication technologies, especially artificial intelligence applications, by extremist groups facilitates their future recruitment of children.

Dr. AlMalik concluded by reaffirming ICESCO’s continued commitment to combating violent extremism and eradicating radical ideologies at the root. He also commended the efforts of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism in Rabat, with the cooperation and support of Moroccan authorities.