Statement by H.E. Ambassador OSUGA Takeshi, Deputy Permanent Representative of Japan to the United Nations, for the first meeting on the Seventh Review of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy

Mr. Co-facilitators,
 
Let me begin by thanking you, Ambassador Maraver of Spain and Ambassador Al-Hassan of Oman, for holding this meeting to start the process of the seventh review of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.
 
The one-year postponement of the process has given us time to reflect on how counter-terrorism efforts should be adapted to the “new normal” of the COVID era. We should identify new threats of terrorism and recalibrate our efforts in the post-pandemic counter-terrorism landscape. As we embark on this crucial process, allow me to share four points on which Japan puts particular emphasis.
 
First, cyberspace. COVID-19 has accelerated our dependence on ICTs in every aspect of life. In so doing, it has increased our vulnerability to threats from the use of technology by terrorists, which was already evident in recent years. These threats include not only direct cyberattacks but also illegal or nefarious acts in cyberspace, such as emerging forms of financing as well as online propaganda and incitement. Countermeasures must be conducted through multi-stakeholder collaboration involving governments, technology companies, civil society and academia, as presented in the “Christchurch Call to Action” and the “G20 Osaka Leaders' Statement on Preventing Exploitation of the Internet for Terrorism and Violent Extremism Conducive to Terrorism.”
 
Second, maritime security. The previous outcome of the strategy review (A/RES/72/284) barely touches upon maritime security, with only one reference in the context of capacity-building activities by UN entities. Maritime transport of goods has not declined due to the pandemic and the safety of maritime routes remains critical as the world economy aims to build back better. The seventh review should place much greater importance on maritime security efforts.
 
Third, institution-building. Governance failures create breeding grounds for terrorism. As a staunch advocate for institution-building as a means to overcome fragility, Japan believes that effective, accountable and inclusive institutions can strengthen the legitimacy of the government, build trust, stabilize society and prevent radicalization. They include, in particular, security and judicial institutions but also those needed to deliver basic services such as health and education. The upcoming review should reflect this critical institution-building perspective.
 
Lastly, root causes. Terrorism and violent extremism, which target the “freedom from fear” of individuals, will persist in a society where people, including the most vulnerable, are not entitled to “freedom from want” and “freedom to live in dignity.” We need people-centred, comprehensive, context-specific and prevention-oriented responses to ensure human security and eradicate these heinous crimes. As COVID-19 is complicating our path towards achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the seventh review should underscore our strong commitment to addressing the root causes of terrorism.
 
In summary, in our view, cyberspace, maritime security, institution-building and root causes should be discussed in depth in the upcoming review process.
 
To conclude, let me assure you, Mr. Co-facilitators, that Japan stands ready to engage constructively in this process to achieve a streamlined, substantive resolution that will guide our counter-terrorism efforts through the pandemic and beyond.
 
Thank you.