76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
Special Meeting of the Counter-Terrorism Committee commemorating the 20th anniversary of the adoption of UNSC resolution 1373 (2001) and the establishment of the Committee
Delivered by Ambassador Sven Jürgenson
November 4, New York
I thank the briefers for their insightful presentations. Let me express my gratitude to the organizers for having this commemorating meeting that gives us an opportunity to reflect on the progress of the past 20 years as well as to look forward.
The Security Council acted swiftly and in unity after the horrific events of September 11. The establishment of the Counter-Terrorism Committee pursuant to resolution 1373 (2001) was a pivotal decision. Countering terrorism is the priority we all share and only acting together, we can put a stop to the terrorists and its backers.
Looking back, as an international community, we have come a long way. The understanding of the threat and of its underlining factors have significantly improved. Our cooperation in information sharing as well as in the technical assistance have strengthened. We have built a toolbox for guidance and measures for the Member States to tackle terrorism. These now cover wide spectrum of norms from the international legal cooperation to counter-terrorist financing, to the horizontal issues like human rights, gender issues and civil society.
The adoption of the landmark resolution 1373 carried a wish to prevent such devastating acts in the future. Looking ahead, Estonia is convinced that the focus of counter-terrorism policy should be on the prevention and on the whole-of-society approach. Women, youth, civil society, local communities, private sector and Governments all play a role in preventing terrorism. It is essential to combat poverty and marginalization as well as to support critical thinking and education.
In all our efforts, we recall the need for a strong human rights based approach to prevent and counter violent extremism and terrorism, and reiterate that countering terrorism must never serve as a pretext for human rights violations. We must respect our values, norms and principles under all circumstances – this is fundamental for successful and sustainable counter-terrorism efforts. The failure to respect human rights, and the marginalisation of individuals and groups, contributes to increased radicalization and to violence, and fosters a sense of impunity.
Ensuring accountability and denying impunity is an essential part of countering terrorism. It is also vital in healing communities, restoring trust, and creating conditions for sustainable peace.
In conclusion, as the threat evolves, so too must our resolve to combat it remain firm. The Counter-Terrorism Committee, supported by CTED has been an integral part of that work over the last two decades and we must ensure it remains efficient and effective in the years ahead.
I thank you!