Key strategies in the fight against extremism
DUBAI // Government strategies promoting open religious speech are invaluable in the war on terror, a political analyst who has experienced radicalisation told the summit.
Abdullah bin Bijad Al Otaibi, a Saudi writer, said extremism had been bred by misguided and radicalised groups nourishing their own hatred, humiliation and frustration.
“Extremism is in the mind and results in horrendous acts. I too went down that path but thanks to reviewing and further understanding my religion, I stand before you as an advocate against radicalisation and hatred.”
Mr Al Otaibi said the roots of terrorism were found in humanity, and that every person was capable of love and hate.
“Hassan Al Banna, the Egyptian schoolteacher who founded the Muslim Brotherhood, said if he was given the chance, he would open schools to teach hatred to everyone,” he said.
He urged governments to promote open religious speech to fight terrorism, based on the priorities and policies of each state.
Mr Al Otaibi said that groups who preached extreme versions of Islam needed to be closely monitored and that governments should ensure funding for these groups was cut so that radicalisation was contained.
“The fight is long but there is hope,” he said. “Many regions and cultures have suffered from radicalisation and extremism. This is not limited to any specific religion or region.
“In fact, one cannot say that it is caused by dictatorship rule or social status. Some of the most prominent terrorists were also very well off financially.”