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Introduction:

In light of the growing phenomenon of extremism and terrorism that threatens societal peace, the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein, in Karbala, Iraq took the initiative to organize the “Second Conference on Countering Extremism and Terrorism” under the slogan “Extremism and Terrorism: A Threat to Societal Peace” during the period from February 29 to March 1, 2024. The conference was widely attended by various stakeholders and witnessed rich events that discussed ways to combat extremism and terrorism and promote the values of tolerance and peace.

Mr. William Warda, the head of the Iraqi research team of the Hammurabi Human Rights Organization (HHRO), participated in this conference. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of restoring and rehabilitating the landmarks that were destroyed by ISIS in an attempt to eliminate Iraq’s cultural and historical heritage. He also emphasized the importance of addressing the other crimes committed by ISIS against Iraqi citizens.

Mr. Warda discussed the organization’s human rights approach to monitoring and dismantling extremist tendencies. He explained that the organization works within a framework that protects the rights of all Iraqi components without discrimination or exaggeration, promoting a state of justice, equality, and tolerance.

Key Events:

  • Opening Ceremony: The ceremony featured speeches by representatives of the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein (AS), the United Nations, and academic, political, and diplomatic figures, all of whom stressed the seriousness of the phenomenon of extremism and terrorism and the importance of collective action to combat it.
  • Scientific Sessions: The conference included numerous scientific sessions that discussed various aspects of the phenomenon of extremism and terrorism, from its roots and causes to its destructive effects on society, and finally to strategies to combat it.
  • Workshops: Several workshops were held aimed at enhancing the skills of participants in the fields of combating extremism and terrorism, and raising awareness about the dangers of this phenomenon.
  • Exhibition: An exhibition was held on the sidelines of the conference, where participants displayed their creations and artworks that embody their rejection of extremism and terrorism and their call for peace.

Participating Parties:

The conference was attended by representatives of various stakeholders, including: religious institutions, government institutions, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, academic researchers, and youth representatives.

Conference Outcomes and Recommendations:

The conference emerged with a number of important outcomes and recommendations, including:

  • Emphasizing the importance of spreading a culture of tolerance and acceptance among all segments of society.
  • Strengthening the role of education in combating extremism and terrorism.
  • Supporting and empowering young people to participate in efforts to combat extremism and terrorism.
  • The need for international cooperation to combat extremism and terrorism.

Conclusion:

The Second Conference on Countering Extremism and Terrorism was a significant step towards a more peaceful society. The wide participation from various stakeholders demonstrated the awareness of the seriousness of the phenomenon of extremism and terrorism and the collective will to combat it. We hope that the outcomes and recommendations of the conference will contribute to achieving the desired change on the ground.

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