Statement on behalf of Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia on Agenda item 109 “Measures to eliminate international terrorism” at the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly, Sixth Committee
delivered by Elvīra Cupika-Mavrina, Legal Advisor of Latvia to the United Nations
New York, 6 October 2025
Mr. Chair,
I have the honour to address the Sixth Committee on behalf of the three Baltic States - Estonia, Lithuania and my own country Latvia.
The Baltic States align with the statement made by the European Union and its Members States.
As this is the first time we take the floor in this committee, we wish to congratulate the chair and other members of the bureau on their appointment. We would like to assure you of our full support and cooperation towards a successful session.
We thank the Secretary General for his latest report on measures to eliminate international terrorism. It reconfirms that terrorism remains a constantly evolving threat – one that adapts to new technologies, transcends borders and continues to claim lives across the globe.
No country can fight this threat alone. Only through genuine cooperation and close collaboration with international partners can we prevent any potential threats from emerging.
In light of the latest report, we recommend stepping up cooperation to counter online radicalization, spread of disinformation and propaganda by promoting media literacy and resilience.
While finding the best ways to tackle this evolving and complex issue, we can’t forget that all counter terrorism measures must fully comply with international law, including the UN Charter and human rights law. Upholding the rule of law is essential to ensure that our actions against terrorism do not erode the very values we aim to protect.
After decades of negotiations, we should continue working on the legal definition of terrorism. In this context, we acknowledge the efforts made by the Council of Europe. It is also important to emphasize that fight against terrorism should not be used as an excuse to undermine human rights and fundamental freedom – a practice, that unfortunately, some countries still follow.
We reaffirm our steadfast support for the Secretary-General, the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism, CTED, and the entities of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact in their efforts to coordinate and strengthen international actions to prevent and combat terrorism and violent extremism.
I thank you!