EU Workshop in New Delhi Tackles Violent Extremism with India
The EU conducted a workshop in New Delhi, gathering counterterrorism experts from India and EU member states to explore strategies against violent extremism. Discussions included prevention, de-radicalization efforts, and the need for continued collaboration on security aspects. The event highlighted ongoing EU-India partnerships to combat terrorism and align with broader security strategies.
On Wednesday, the European Union (EU) hosted a technical workshop in New Delhi aimed at addressing violent extremism, involving counterterrorism and security officials from India and various EU member states. This event took place in conjunction with the Raisina Dialogue and emphasized a governmental approach to combatting extremism through risk evaluation, reintegration strategies, and exit programs.
The workshop provided an essential platform for exchanging best practices regarding the prevention, de-radicalization, and rehabilitation of violent extremists among EU and Indian counterterrorism experts. This initiative follows on from the recent visit by the European College of Commissioners, where both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the importance of enhanced counter-terrorism collaboration and a potential security and defense partnership.
EU Ambassador Hervé Delphin inaugurated the workshop attended by security practitioners from various EU member states including Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, and the Netherlands. Dinkar Gupta, former Director General of the National Investigation Agency (NIA), stated, “India and the EU face evolving security threats that require innovative and collaborative solutions. Learning from each other’s experiences will help us build more effective strategies for de-radicalization, rehabilitation and long-term prevention.”
Maciej Stadejek, director for security and defense policy in the European External Action Service, emphasized the significance of the workshop in enhancing EU-India ties to counter terrorism. He remarked that by sharing expertise and fostering dialogue, both regions strengthen their capabilities to prevent violent extremism while preserving democratic values and human rights.
Aligned with the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy, this workshop builds upon prior EU-India counter-terrorism efforts, such as the ESIWA+ project, which encompasses crucial training for Indian security on various risks including online terrorism and drone threats. Additionally, this workshop follows the first joint initiative in February 2022 focusing on online terrorism content, which has since remained a primary agenda in ongoing discussions.
In conclusion, the recent workshop held by the EU in New Delhi serves as a vital collaboration initiative, enhancing the partnership between India and EU in countering violent extremism. Through shared expertise, risk assessment, and focus on rehabilitation strategies, both parties are better equipped to confront evolving security threats. This ongoing cooperation reflects a commitment to uphold democratic values in the face of terrorism.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
