- Events
The Permanent Representatives of Finland and of the Kingdom of Morocco, the co-facilitators of the ninth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, held a townhall with civil society actors at United Nations Headquarters in New York on 8 April 2026, convening Member States, civil society, and United Nations entities.
During the townhall, H.E. Ms. Elina Kalkku, Permanent Representative of Finland highlighted that inclusive consultations with civil society, including women and youth, are essential to ensure that the Strategy remains responsive to evolving threats. Ms. Majda Moutchou, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco, who spoke on behalf of the Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Morocco, underscored that civil society and youth actors play a critical role in prevention, resilience, and sustainable peace.
Discussions focused on human rights, gender and youth, highlighting safeguards, the responsible use of technology, and roles in prevention and reintegration.
The insights gained will inform Member State deliberations in the review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
The Townhall built on consultations with civil society organized in March 2026, with the support of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵOCT), Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ Women, the Office of the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED).
The consultations engaged women-led groups, human rights actors, victims and survivors of terrorism, and youth networks, including the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵOCT-supported Youth Engagement and Empowerment Programme (YEEP) and the Victims of Terrorism Association Network (VOTAN).
Participants emphasized the importance of protecting civic space, strengthening safeguard and accountability; advancing gender-responsive approaches and leadership of women; expanding victim-centred support; and ensuring meaningful youth participation.
