New approaches in combating international terrorism and extremism in Central Asia

Abstract: In recent decades, the Central Asian region has been characterized by the virtual absence of a terrorist threat within the region, but extremist sentiments exist in societies that threaten the existence of secular states. With this in mind, the aim of this study is to analyse new approaches to combating international terrorism at the regional and international level, as well as methods of countering radicalized elements of society in
the Central Asian region. The methodological basis of the research is based on the analysis of articles, data, and indices of international organizations, reports, and publications of public authorities, speeches of top political officials, as well as reports of human rights organizations, including assessments by the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism. It is researched that the government of the Republic of Uzbekistan in its foreign policy adhered
to the idea of modernization of the Afghan society, taking into account the vulnerability of the territories bordering Afghanistan, which did not give the expected results. Under the leadership of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, regular discussions take place, such as a seminar in Bishkek on countering extremism and terrorism and the implementation of a project to protect critical infrastructure and public places in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan from the destructive activities of international terrorist groups. At the national level, efforts are being made in Turkmenistan to counter international terrorism. The regional partnership within the framework of the “Turkmenistan-Ashgabat Model United Nations” shapes the development of critical thinking in academic circles and makes it possible to assess the risks from extremist propaganda on the Internet. The findings of the study indicate a constant search for new methods and solutions that will contribute to reducing the levels of terrorist and extremist threats. The Central Asian region borders states where international terrorist groups are active, so countering international terrorism and violent extremism in the region contributes to the overall reduction of risks from these transnational threats
around the world.

Keywords: Reintegration – border control – counterpropaganda – modernization – national identity

DOI: 10.58866/ZNHX7290