UNGA Plenary Session: items 16 and 117/culture of peace; the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy/ report of the Secretary-General A/70/674 and document A/70/675

12 February, 2016

Remarks by Ambassador Zohrab Mnatsakanyan, Permanent Representative of Armenia to the United Nations

Mr President,

At the outset, I thank you and your team for convening this timely meeting and conducting business in a transparent and inclusive manner. As terrorism and violent extremism are on the rise globally, the efforts by the international community should be redoubled in preventing and countering these scourges in an effective way. The United Nations has a considerable role to play in changing the environment conducive to intolerance, racial discrimination, xenophobia, violent extremism and terrorism around the world.

We join others in thanking the Secretary General for his efforts to prepare a comprehensive Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism (PVE). The report is under consideration in the capital. The report evidently apples a multidisciplinary approach and methodology in addressing the diversity of drivers of violent extremism and offering a set of preventive tools at the national, regional and international levels.

The Plan of Action draws a distinct linkage between conflict prevention and resolution on the one hand, and preventing violent extremism, on the other. In this regard, we would like to highlight the importance of regional mechanisms for conflict mediation and resolution, as well as preventing terrorism and violent extremism by reducing the appeal of, and support for, violent extremist groups and ideologies. Such approach is duly elaborated in the document. Further strengthening early warning/detection mechanisms and enhancing prevention toolbox at all levels are crucial to this end. We positively note the provisions referring to the establishment of early warning centres and prohibition of incitement to hatred.

Mr President,

Prevention should be the primary action in halting deteriorating situations and their regression to crisis. Armenia has been continuously supporting and contributing to the elaboration of the mechanisms of prevention at national and international levels. In particular, Resolutions on Prevention of Genocide, consistently initiated by Armenia in the Human Rights Council since 2005, attach prominence to the critical functions of early warning and early action. Early signs of a spread of violent extremism should remain a focus of a collective effort and action. Armenia consistently supports the efforts of the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide to elaborate the concept of prevention, as well as practical tools for early detection of deteriorating situations.

Drivers of radicalisation, the “pull” and “push” factors as identified in the report, are detectable at early phases. Continued and systematic violations of human rights, marginalisation, discrimination, poor governance and denial of opportunities are precursors of massive crimes, in which violent extremism is their conduit and instrument. The urge for a comprehensive approach to preventing radicalization, violent extremism and atrocity crimes is compelling. We note that such approach is duly reflected in this Programme of Action.

The present report and the Programme of Action may serve an important contribution for a continued international effort to consolidate solid and determined fight against violent extremism. Indeed, member states should build further on the understanding of the phenomenon and on implementation of individual and collective measures against it. We note that the report recognises the diverse nature of the phenomenon, which yet requires clear definition. Finally, the efforts of the international community in denying fertile ground for violent extremism should be conjoined with the evolving broader vision for change towards solid shared responsibility for humanity. The Secretary General makes a strong appeal “to send forth a resounding call for peace, justice and human dignity”. Armenia looks forward to further consideration of the Present Plan of Action at the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy review in June 2016 and in other relevant fora.

Thank you

MFA RA
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