UN Urges Stronger Action Against Terrorism

Security Council hears calls for tighter technology controls, stronger cooperation and greater support for vulnerable countries.

The UN Security Council has been urged to strengthen global efforts to combat terrorism as extremist groups continue adapting to emerging technologies and operating across borders.

Speakers told the Council that terrorism is evolving rapidly, with groups including Da’esh, Al-Qaida and their affiliates exploiting new technologies and increasingly sophisticated propaganda methods.

France’s Permanent Representative and Council President for September, Jérôme Bonnafont, said terrorists were using “our own innovations against us”, while continuing to conduct attacks far beyond their traditional areas of operation.

The meeting highlighted the need for stronger international judicial cooperation, responsible regulation of artificial intelligence, closer partnerships with the private sector and increased support for countries with limited counter-terrorism capacities.

Speakers noted that counter-terrorism efforts since the September 11 attacks had achieved significant progress, but warned that terrorist organisations continue to adapt their tactics.

The Council was called on to move beyond political commitments and focus on implementation by strengthening international cooperation, improving governance of emerging technologies, investing in prevention and resilience, and supporting countries facing heightened terrorism risks.

Participants also stressed that counter-terrorism measures must comply with international law and human rights standards.

The discussions underscored concerns that gaps in technology governance, international coordination and national capacities could undermine global security if not addressed through renewed and sustained action.