On the occasion of the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to promoting peace, tolerance and mutual respect and to addressing the root causes that lead to radicalisation and violence. Violent extremism is a grave violation of human dignity and an affront to the universal values of justice, compassion and human rights.
Pakistan is a party to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT), International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD). Pursuant to United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 (2015), Pakistan's National Policy on Prevention of Violent Extremism (NPVE), 2024, reflects this understanding and is fully aligned with the UN's mission to Prevent Violent Extremism. It represents a strategic shift from reactive responses to proactive prevention, grounded in the principles of pluralism, human rights, rule of law, and social justice. The policy adopts a whole-of-society approach.
Countering extremism and fostering tolerance is deeply rooted in both Islamic teachings and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Islam emphasises respect for human dignity, equality and peaceful coexistence among all people. Similarly, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, regardless of distinctions. Together, these principles underline that preventing extremism is a moral and civic duty that nurtures peace, justice and harmony within societies and across nations.
Pakistan has made significant sacrifices in its resolute fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Our people, armed forces and law enforcement agencies have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination in confronting this menace. At the same time, we remain convinced that lasting peace can only be achieved through education, dialogue, economic opportunity, good governance and the promotion of pluralism and social harmony. We remain steadfast in our efforts to strengthen legal safeguards, institutional reforms and capacity-building to prevent torture and extremism.
We are also deeply concerned by the continued and systematic use of extremism in conflict zones and under repressive regimes. We particularly draw the attention of the international community to the plight of innocent civilians, including women and children, who continue to face extremism, arbitrary detention, and extrajudicial actions in illegally occupied territories like Kashmir and Palestine.
We strongly believe that preventing violent extremism demands collective global action. The international community must foster cooperation based on shared responsibility, respect for sovereignty and adherence to international law. Efforts to counter violent extremism must not stigmatise any religion, culture or community but instead promote understanding, inclusion and respect for diversity.
On this day, Pakistan calls for renewed international commitment to addressing the conditions conducive to terrorism, investing in youth empowerment, countering hate speech and disinformation and strengthening families and communities as the first line of defence against extremist narratives.
Let us work together to build a world where peace prevails over violence, dialogue over division and hope over hatred, for the benefit of our present and future generations.
Pakistan Zindabad.
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