Statement by the Republic of Latvia at the UN Security Council Open Debate "African-led and Development-focused Counter-terrorism: Strengthening African Leadership and Implementation of Counterterrorism Initiatives"
New York, 21 January 2025
Mr. President,
I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Algeria for making the fight against terrorism a central focus of its presidency, and extend my gratitude to all the briefers for their insightful contributions.
We anknowledge that for many countries, especially in Africa, terrorism represents an existential threat to their security. The Sahel region, in particular, has become the area most devastated by terrorism, with violent extremist groups causing widespread insecurity, suffering and hampering development. It is essential to recognize that this is not just a regional, but a global challenge that has to be addressed urgently. The repercussions of instability in the West Africa and other regions extend beyond its borders, lead to spillovers, making it crucial for the international community to work together in finding sustainable solutions.
Next year marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, making it very timely for us to reflect on how we can collectively combat and prevent terrorism.
Today I wish to share three reflections: African-led initiatives, adopting a whole-of-society approach and disrupting illicit flows.
First, let me acknowledge the efforts already underway in the African continent. Initiatives such as the Accra Initiative, the Nouakchott process, the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Strategy are vital regional responses that underscore the determination of African nations in combating terrorism.
I would also like to commend Algeria for assuming a leading role as an AU Champion in the fight against Terrorism and as a host country for the AU Counter Terrorism Centre.
Latvia strongly supports these regional initiatives and calls for an even closer coordination between the AU, the UN, and regional organizations across the continent. The contributions of the European Union's Common Security and Defence Policy missions in supporting our partners in Africa are also worth highlighting.
Secondly, in peacebuilding and de-radicalization efforts, it is crucial to ensure the inclusion of women, youth, and local communities, alongside meaningful engagement with civil society.
These key stakeholders must be empowered by all means to play their irreplaceable role in fighting against terrorism and violent extremism. Addressing poverty and inequality, non-security interventions are also essential to resolve governance issues that often fuel resentment, and create fertile ground for recruitment and radicalization.
Thirdly, addressing illicit activities is critical to curb the expansion of terrorism networks. It is important to enforce United Nations Security Council sanctions against terrorist organisations and terrorism financing to effectively disrupt their networks in Africa and elsewhere.
In this context, illicit mining has become a major source of financing not only for local terrorist groups but is also linked to operations of foreign terrorist fighters and mercenary groups in Africa. It is urgent that we intensify efforts to track and disrupt illicit flows, monitor global buyers, and enforce stricter international compliance standards.
In conclusion, Latvia remains committed to working with our partners in Africa to address the terrorist threat more effectively on the continent and beyond.
Thank you.