Joint statement on the human rights dimensions of preventing and countering violent extremism

Human Rights Council – 31st Regular Session

Panel discussion on the human rights dimensions of 

preventing and countering violent extremism

Statement on behalf of MIKTA

17 March 2016

Mr President

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the MIKTA countries – Mexico, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, Turkey and Australia. 

At their sixth meeting on 26 September 2015 in New York, the foreign ministers of the MIKTA countries agreed that countering the scourge of terrorism and preventing violent extremism would become one of their core priorities for collaboration. 

It was deeply symbolic that they did so: the MIKTA countries represent the great diversity of the international community.  We are geographically dispersed; we represent different cultural, religious and historical backgrounds; and we are at different stages of development.  Yet we stand united against this scourge which knows no borders, respects no belief, and holds no respect for human rights. We willenhance our cooperation to counter terrorism and address violent extremism. We are also committed to supporting efforts to strengthen good governance, democracy, and human rights.’

The MIKTA countries have already adopted a range of measures to counter violent extremism and we will be playing a constructive role as UN member states examine the recommendations of the Secretary-General’s Plan of Action on Preventing Violent Extremism.  

Drawing on our common commitment to human rights and rules-based international governance, weemphasise that fulfilling, promoting and protecting comprehensive human rights—civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights—are pertinent to prevent and counter violent extremism. We continue to be steadfast in upholding our fundamental values, including human rights and the rule of law, in our responses to such crimes.

The MIKTA countries recognise the horrific impacts of violent extremism and terrorism which reach across the globe, including to the MIKTA countries.  It is only through concerted action at the global, regional and national level, and through fulfilling our obligations under international law, that we can succeed in ending hatred, intolerance and violence.  These actions must necessarily include efforts to address the conditions conducive to violent extremism and terrorism in all their forms and manifestations.  Our efforts must recognize that violent extremism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group.  Terrorists seek to divide us– our efforts must promote mutual respect, harmony and unity.