Joint Nordic statement delivered by Ms. Kjersti Konstanse Løfors,
Adviser at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Norway
Sixth Committee - Agenda item 109:
Measures to eliminate international terrorism
6 October, 2025

Mr. Chair,

It is a privilege to take the floor on behalf of the five Nordic countries—Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Sweden, and my own country, Norway.

Terrorism and violent extremism remain serious cross-border threats. They endanger the security of states and the safety of individuals. To address these challenges effectively, strong multilateral cooperation—particularly through the United Nations—is indispensable.

We categorically denounce terrorism in all its manifestations. This includes violent right-wing extremism, which continues to pose a real and present danger in many countries, including our own. The tragic consequences of several mass casualty attacks serve as a stark reminder of the need for sustained and comprehensive efforts to counter this threat.

Mr. Chair,

ISIL and al-Qaeda continue to pose grave risks to international peace and security. While ISIL has lost territorial control in Syria and Iraq, it remains a potent force with the capacity to destabilize both the region and areas beyond. 

Both groups have increasingly focused their efforts on many places in Africa, expanding their networks in fragile states by exploiting weak governance, unresolved grievances, poverty, and conflict. Their growing presence in the Horn of Africa is deeply concerning. Equally troubling is the deteriorating security landscape in the Sahel and the risk of instability spreading to West Africa’s coastal states. ISIL’s Khorasan Province continues to demonstrate both intent and capability to carry out terrorist acts domestically and internationally.

Military takeovers in some Sahelian countries further erode state legitimacy vis-à-vis its people and severely hinder the effectiveness of preventive and counterterrorism measures. In addition, Russia’s reported interference in political processes, disinformation operations, and the destabilizing actions of affiliated actors add another layer of complexity in the region.

Mr. Chair,

The Nordic countries place strong emphasis on the prevention of violent extremism, and we advocate for a whole-of-society approach to sustain these efforts over time. Our shared commitment to combating international terrorism must begin with strong preventive measures, with particular attention to effectively addressing the root causes of violent extremism. In this endeavor, it is imperative that we fully respect and uphold international law, including international humanitarian law, international human rights law, and the rule of law. Any deviation from these rules and principles risks undermining the legitimacy of both national governments and international institutions, ultimately weakening our collective efforts.

Governments cannot succeed alone. National strategies must be developed and implemented in close partnership with local communities. We commend the vital contributions of civil society actors, educators, health professionals, youth leaders, religious figures, municipal workers, and others who serve as the first line of defence against hate and extremism. Overall, the full and meaningful participation and leadership of women is indispensable in these efforts.

Children and young people must be at the heart of our preventive efforts. Their experiences with hate and racism must be acknowledged, and they should be actively engaged in shaping responses to extremist ideologies – both offline and online. We are worried about the increased use of on-line platforms, including gaming platforms, to radicalize young people and incite violence. 

We must also strengthen the resilience of children against recruitment and exploitation by terrorist and extremist groups. It is our shared responsibility to protect vulnerable children and youth, and to ensure that education is safeguarded from attacks.

Mr. Chair,

The Nordic countries remain committed to supporting the Secretary-General’s efforts, the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, and the work of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact. We encourage the UN to continue its efforts to promote an outcome-based approach, as well as internal coherence and accountability across the system.

In this spirit, we will contribute constructively to the 9th review of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in 2026.    

Thank you, Mr. Chair.