Violent extremism and terrorism addressed annually on February 12

In order to increase international cooperation and raise awareness of the risks associated with violent extremism and terrorism, the United Nations General Assembly decided to declare February 12 as the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism.

A Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism was presented to the General Assembly on January 15, 2016, by then-UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. The General Assembly passed a resolution on February 12, 2016, praising the Secretary-General's efforts in this regard. The Plan of Action advocates for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the fundamental causes of people becoming radicalized and joining violent extremist groups, as well as crucial security-based counterterrorism measures, according to the United Nations. 

The UN announced that its goals are violated by violent extremism. Human rights, security, and sustainable development are all threatened, and no nation or area is safe from its effects. The UN affirmed that extreme violence is a complex phenomenon with no obvious definition, and it is neither brand-new nor exclusive to any one country, ethnic group, or religious tradition. 

However, terrorist organizations like ISIS, Al-Qaeda, and Boko Haram have recently impacted international perception of violent extremism and the discussion surrounding how to counter this threat. The message of intolerance spread by these groups has had grave repercussions for many parts of the world. Holding territory and communicating their horrifying acts in real-time over social media, they aim to undermine the principles of justice, peace, and human dignity that are shared throughout the world.

According to Relief Web, a commemoration of the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism is being held by the Office of the National Security Advisory in collaboration with the UN in Iraq, with emphasis on how Iraq has suffered at the hands of terrorist organizations. The event will be held in Baghdad on Sunday, February 12, with the participation of various speakers, including representatives of the Iraqi prime minister, the Kurdistan Regional Government, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the Iraqi national security advisor and a UN representative. 

UNESCO defined extreme violence as a danger to harmony and tolerance, adding that violent extremists are created and fed, not born. Building students' resistance to violent extremism through education is a potent strategy. By challenging hostile and violent narratives, it strengthens their commitment to nonviolence and peace. Starting violence prevention in schools as early as feasible is important work. UNESCO supports nations in implementing educational initiatives that assist students become more resilient to violent extremism and reduce the factors that fuel the phenomenon.