Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism during the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council (26 February – 5 April 2024), delivered by Gaurav Kumar Thakur, Counsellor
Geneva, 12 March 2024
Madam Vice-President,
1. We thank the Special Rapporteur(SR) for presenting his report, which we have noted.
2. Terrorism is an existential threat to international peace and security. It knows no borders, nationality or race, and is a challenge that the international community must combat collectively. Acts of terrorism not only violate the rights of individual victims, but they also adversely impact their families and society at large. The best way to place human rights at the centre of efforts to counter terrorismwould be to reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
3. The SR in his report has outlined his vision and priorities for the mandate, including identification of new thematic priorities. We take this opportunity to highlight four specific imperatives for a sustainable, long-term solution to the scourge of terrorism:
One, the issue of terror financing and state culpability, whether by commission or omission, should remain a focus.
Two, it is important to ensure the integrity and accountability of multilateral counter-terror mechanisms and their working methods.
Three, we must avoid politicization of counterterrorism effortsand application of double standards, real or perceived.
And four, it is critical to recognize and counterthreats from the misuse of new and emerging technologies by terrorists to spread virulent propaganda, conduct recruitment, raise funds, and carryout terrorist attacks.
Madam Vice President,
4. We wish a fruitful tenure to the SR, and assure him of our support to have future discussions on his important mandate.
Thank you.
