10 February 2025
Thank you, Mr. President, I also thank USG Voronkov and Executive Director Gherman for their briefings.
Colleagues,
We meet today to discuss a threat that remains as urgent as ever: ISIL’s continued ability to adapt, exploit instability, and spread its influence. Our briefers have been clear—despite decades of international efforts, ISIL has not disappeared.
Allow me to focus on three key areas.
First, we must not underestimate ISIL’s ability to exploit instability across the world.
In Syria, the fall of the Assad-regime marked the end of more than half a century of brutal and repressive dictatorship. As this new day dawns, we must collectively work to prevent a security vacuum for ISIL and other terrorist groups to exploit.
The possible release of detained terrorists and the potential resurgence of ISIL networks pose serious risks to Syria, the Middle East and globally. Denmark urges all actors to act responsibly and avoid any actions that could further destabilize the situation. In this regard, maintaining security around the camps and detention facilities, as well as providing much needed humanitarian aid, addressing the root causes of ISIL recruitment, and curbing radicalization are important tools to prevent the re-emergence of ISIL.
Beyond Syria, ISIL-Khorasan remains a major threat in Afghanistan and the broader region. From attacks to propaganda, and recruitment, the group actively seeks to expand its influence in Central Asia, attempting to destabilize the region. Its external operations, including plots in Europe, highlight the need for strengthened regional cooperation, intelligence-sharing, and counter-terrorism coordination. Disrupting ISIL-K’s financial networks, propaganda and operational capabilities must remain a priority.
Across Africa, ISIL is expanding its footprint, fueling instability and insecurity and committing grave human rights abuses. Across the Sahel, and increasingly the neighbouring states in Coastal West Africa, the Lake Chad Basin, and Central Africa, the group thrives on instability and weak governance. In the Horn of Africa the increasing presence of foreign ISIL fighters is a growing concern, as they exploit open travel routes. Meanwhile, emerging links between terrorist groups and piracy are raising new concerns for maritime security, highlighting the urgency of strengthening regional cooperation, including by strengthening border controls and improving intelligence sharing.
Second, Mr. President,
It is easy to be discouraged when facing a threat that keeps mutating despite years of efforts to prevent and counter it.
We have invested significant resources, attention, and coordination in fighting ISIL. The fact that the threat persists does not mean we have failed. The Secretary-General’s report highlights important progress and lessons learned.
At the same time, we must stay vigilant and flexible. ISIL has adapted, it has retained financial reserves, it has built a strong propaganda network, utilising new technologies. Simply doing more of the same will not be enough. We must constantly reassess and refine our strategies—if we are slow and rigid, we will always be one step behind.
Third, Mr. President,
Denmark’s stance is clear: An effective response against terrorism must go beyond security measures. The rule of law, inclusive and meaningful participation, and human rights are not obstacles to counter-terrorism, they are its very foundation. When we compromise these principles, we weaken both our credibility and the long-term effectiveness of our efforts.
A comprehensive approach is critical—one that pairs effective security measures with prevention while addressing the root causes of terrorism within a framework of human rights and strong institutions rooted in the rule of law. Countering radicalization requires not only military and law enforcement efforts, but also investment in education, economic opportunity, and community resilience.
Upholding fundamental rights and reinforcing institutions that promote justice and accountability are essential to fostering long-term stability. Meaningful cooperation with local actors, youth, civil society, and the integration of the Women, Peace, and Security agenda are all vital for sustainable success.
Mr. President, to conclude,
As ISIL remains an evolving threat, our response must be resolute yet adaptable. We must have the courage to reassess our approach when circumstances shift, rather than simply reinforcing existing efforts. Denmark will continue working closely with international partners to ensure a counter-terrorism strategy that is agile, results-driven, and firmly rooted in our shared values.
Thank you.