Reflecting on a Tragic Anniversary
Twenty-five years have passed since the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, which claimed the lives of almost 3,000 individuals from more than 90 nations. Today, we stand in solidarity with the United States and countries around the globe, remembering the victims, their families, and the survivors who continue to bear the impact of that tragic day.
However, mere remembrance is insufficient. It is imperative that we take proactive measures to prevent such atrocities from occurring again. Today, we also pay tribute to those dedicated individuals worldwide who have devoted their lives to countering terrorism. This includes our armed forces, law enforcement personnel, first responders, humanitarian workers, and United Nations peacekeepers, all of whom play a crucial role in this fight.
The Unity Against Terrorism
The attacks of September 11 aimed to instill fear and division among us. Contrary to this intention, they instead served to unite the global community in a shared resolve to address and combat such heinous acts of terrorism. In the wake of these attacks, the United Nations Security Council acted with unprecedented unity and determination.
Resolution 1373 was pivotal, establishing fundamental obligations and institutions that continue to underpin our collective security. Over the past quarter-century, this Council has developed a robust framework aimed at preventing terrorist travel, curtailing financing, and enhancing international collaboration.
Across the globe, intelligence-sharing initiatives have strengthened, significantly limiting terrorist financing. Our border and aviation security protocols have undergone profound transformations, resulting in the degradation of terrorist organisations and the successful prevention of numerous attacks.
National and International Efforts
In the United Kingdom, our intelligence services and law enforcement agencies have successfully disrupted many terrorist plots. Through the Prevent programme, we have assisted thousands of vulnerable individuals in steering clear of pathways towards terrorism and violent extremism. On the international front, we continue to collaborate with partners to bolster security and resilience in regions where terrorist groups seek to exploit instability.
In Iraq, for instance, the UK has trained over 120,000 security personnel and provided more than $670 million in humanitarian and stabilisation aid to communities affected by Da’esh. Meanwhile, in West Africa and the Sahel, terrorist groups are driving displacement, worsening humanitarian crises, and undermining stability. The UK is actively engaged with regional partners to enhance intelligence sharing, investigations, and counter-terrorism financing efforts.
The Ongoing Threat and the Need for Cooperation
These accomplishments highlight a fundamental truth: international cooperation is effective. Nonetheless, the threat of terrorism continues to evolve. Groups such as Da’esh and Al-Qaida, along with their affiliates, persist in exploiting conflict, instability, and weak governance. They are continuously adapting their strategies and leveraging new technologies to disseminate propaganda, recruit members, secure funding, and expand their operational capabilities.
It is crucial that we maintain consistent implementation of our existing commitments, including those outlined in Resolution 2462 concerning terrorist financing. Strengthening cooperation among governments, the United Nations, civil society, and both the technology and financial sectors is essential.
Harnessing Technology Responsibly
While artificial intelligence and other technological advancements pose certain risks, they also offer opportunities to detect terrorist content, identify financial networks, and protect vulnerable communities. We must fully utilise the Security Council’s sanctions frameworks to restrict terrorist movement, disrupt their financing, and deny them the resources required for their operations.
Importantly, our counter-terrorism strategies must be both effective and principled. Actions taken in this realm must adhere to international law, including human rights law. Measures that compromise rights or civic freedoms can inadvertently fuel the grievances that extremists seek to exploit.
A Collective Response for a Safer Future
The lessons gleaned from the past twenty-five years are unmistakable: terrorism knows no borders, necessitating a concerted response. Our approach must integrate effective security measures with prevention, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
The United Kingdom remains steadfast in its commitment to work through the United Nations Security Council and with global partners to combat terrorism in all its manifestations. This commitment is our way of honouring the memories of all terrorism victims worldwide and reaffirming our shared obligation to safeguard future generations from such threats.