The USA emphasizes the importance of integrating gender in counterterrorism efforts

The USA commended the UN Women, CTED, IIJ, and Women in International Security Horn of Africa for implementing the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and UN Security Council resolutions on mainstreaming gender in efforts against terrorism and violent extremism.

The USA emphasized that women and girls face increased risks of violence, including gender-based violence both online and offline, despite their crucial roles in mediating peace, providing aid, and supporting communities. Women and girls are often excluded from decision-making processes related to conflict prevention, peacebuilding, security, and counterterrorism. Violent extremists intentionally use online platforms to harass, threaten, and harm women, extending the impact into physical spaces and communities. The USA stressed that in addressing these challenges and ensuring women’s empowerment in shaping their communities’ futures, collaboration with women civil society leaders and other partners is essential. This collaboration includes addressing the online environment to bridge the existing gap.

The USA stated that it is committed to collaborating with civil society, the UN, and member states to combat terrorism, violent extremism, and gender-based violence. This commitment includes initiatives like the Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse and the Christchurch Call to Action.