Dhaka calls for collective action against extremism, non-state armed groups

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain on Friday underscored the need for global solidarity to address the growing threats of extremism and non-state armed groups.

Speaking at a special session titled 'Non-State Power and Influence: Regional and Transnational Challenges, during the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue, Adviser Hossain called for enhanced intelligence sharing, stronger border management, and effective financial oversight to counter transnational networks.

He said non-state actors exploit borders, illicit trade, displacement and digital spaces to advance radical agendas.

Stressing inclusive cooperation among governments, civil society and international partners, he said “the fight against extremism will ultimately be won in classrooms, communities, and in the minds of our youths.”

Sharing Bangladesh’s perspective, the Adviser reaffirmed that no non-state armed groups are allowed to operate within Bangladesh.

Referring to the protracted Rohingya crisis, he said Bangladesh continues to host over 1.3 million forcibly displaced people from Myanmar who fled persecution and violence by Myanmar Military and non-state armed groups. He urged the international community to stay engaged in ensuring their safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation, cautioning that prolonged uncertainty could make the displaced population vulnerable to exploitation and threaten regional stability.

Ministers, dignitaries and representatives from various countries and international organisations, including the EU and NATO, attended the session.

Bangladesh Ambassador to Bahrain Md. Rais Hasan Sarower and Director General (West Asia) Md Humayun Kabir accompanied the Adviser.