The United Arab Emirates has recently taken an active role by participating in the 26th meeting of the Coordinating Committee for the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum. This significant event highlights the UAE’s commitment to international cooperation in combating terrorism and enhancing security strategies worldwide. The meeting, held from June 9-10, 2026, in Brussels, served as a platform for member states to discuss the future direction of the Forum as it marks its fifteenth anniversary.
Key Discussions and Future Directions
Under the leadership of the UAE’s Special Envoy for Counterterrorism, Maksood Krooz, the delegation engaged in critical discussions on the future trajectory of the Forum. The anniversary provided an opportunity for member states to express their views on improving the effectiveness of the organization. Topics included internal structure, operational pathways, governance systems, and the overall impact of the Forum’s outcomes.
Discussions also emphasized the importance of aligning international efforts for the ninth review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, coinciding with the fourth United Nations Counter-Terrorism Week scheduled for the end of June 2026. These strategic dialogues are pivotal as nations seek to streamline their efforts against the rising tide of extremism and terrorism.
Financial Commitments by the UAE
During his address, Maksood Krooz announced the UAE’s financial commitment to supporting the Forum, pledging €500,000 for the year 2027 and an annual contribution of $300,000 starting from 2028. This commitment underscores the UAE’s dedication to bolstering international counter-terrorism initiatives and demonstrates the necessity for collaborative efforts among nations and international organizations to tackle current global challenges related to extremism.
International Support and Recognition
The co-chairs of the Forum, represented by the European Union and Egypt, praised the UAE’s financial pledges and recognized its supportive role in discussions aimed at enhancing the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum’s efforts. Numerous participating countries also lauded the UAE for its significant contributions, reflecting its commitment to advancing collective security measures.
It is pertinent to note that the UAE is a founding member of the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, which serves as an informal multilateral platform supporting UN initiatives. Established in 2011, the Forum aims to strengthen international cooperation in combating terrorism and preventing extremism through the development of best practices and legally non-binding tools designed to build national capacities and promote experience exchange among countries.
Furthermore, the UAE hosts the Hedayah International Center of Excellence for Countering Violent Extremism in Abu Dhabi. Established in 2012, it stands as the first institution to emerge from the Forum, reinforcing the UAE’s ongoing commitment to countering extremism and enhancing global security.
As the UAE continues its engagement in events like the 26th meeting of the Coordinating Committee for the Global Counter-Terrorism Forum, its role as a leader in international counter-terrorism efforts remains evident. The emphasis on collaboration and shared strategies will be essential as the world faces evolving threats in the landscape of terrorism.