04 Mar 2021
STATEMENT BY SINGAPORE DURING THE INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE WITH THE SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ON THE PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS AND FUNDAMENTAL FREEDOMS WHILE COUNTERING TERRORISM DURING THE 46TH SESSION OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL, 4 MARCH 2021
Mr Vice- President,
Singapore thanks the Special Rapporteur for her report on the human rights impact of counter-terrorism and countering extremism policies and practices on the rights of women, girls and the family. We look forward to receiving the Special Rapporteur in Singapore later this year, which will be her first country visit since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created an unprecedented public health crisis that has had ripple effects on many other areas of society. But terrorism remains a serious threat. As governments around the world work towards building back better and overcoming the pandemic, we must exercise continued vigilance against both local and transnational terrorism and violent extremism, which continue to pose clear threats to our peace and security.
As the Special Rapporteur has observed in her report, it is the duty of states to take necessary measures to prevent such grave events from occurring, consistent with their respective international obligations. Singapore believes that a cohesive and united society is the best defence against terrorism. The government has long taken a comprehensive and holistic approach towards counter-terrorism measures, which includes engaging stakeholders and the community-at-large on various fronts. Given our diverse cultural make-up, we work with community leaders and religious organisations to educate society on preventing and responding to terror attacks and identifying the early signs of radicalisation. We maintain that the best way to neutralise the threat from radicalised individuals is to rehabilitate and reintegrate them back into society. The government also emphasises the importance of deepening inter-racial and inter-religious respect and harmony.
As we refine and adapt our approach to counter-terrorism, taking into account the changing global context, Singapore will continue to share our own experiences and learn from others’. We look forward to continuing our dialogue with the Special Rapporteur in this regard.
Thank you.
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