The First Capacity Building Programme: Strengthening Counter-Terrorism in Central Asia
In the face of rising terrorism threats, Central Asian Countries have recognized the need to strengthen their counter-terrorism efforts. To address this challenge, the Government of India launched a significant Capacity Building Programme titled “Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) through Cryptocurrencies, Crowdfunding, and Non-Profit Organisations.” This initiative, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Department of Revenue (DoR), and the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), aimed to build technical capacity, foster collaboration, and deepen understanding among senior experts across five Central Asian Countries: Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan.
The Objective
The programme sought to tackle terrorism financing risks by exploring innovative approaches such as cryptocurrencies, crowdfunding platforms, and non-profit organisations. It provided a platform for knowledge exchange, enabling participants from each country to share insights on the evolving landscape of terrorism financing. The initiative was designed to strengthen regional cooperation and enhance resilience against terrorism.
Participants
The programme featured sessions led by key figures from five countries. Senior experts from Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan contributed their expertise in discussing topics ranging from financial intelligence in terrorism investigations to the use of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) for money laundering. Additionally, an expert from the Eurasian Group (EAG), a regional body similar to the RsRB, provided valuable insights on AML/CFT standards and their application in non-profit and virtual asset sectors.
Sessions Explored
The programme included diverse discussions covering financial intelligence in terrorism financing, the growing threat of VASPs exploited by money launderers, and the abuse of Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) for terrorist purposes. It also delved into the financing of radicalization and the misuse of NPOs for money laundering activities.
Outcomes and Impact
Through interactive discussions, case studies, and the sharing of operational best practices, the initiative fostered a collaborative approach to addressing key challenges. It strengthened regional cooperation by bringing together experts from across Central Asian Countries, enhancing their ability to counter terrorism effectively. The programme’s outcomes have contributed significantly to Central Asian countries’ efforts in counter-terrorism, offering valuable lessons for global counter-terror efforts.
Significance and Global Context
India’s commitment to counter-terror initiatives is commendable, reflecting its global dedication to addressing security threats globally. This Capacity Building Programme not only strengthens the security capabilities of Central Asian Countries but also aligns with India’s broader strategy of regional cooperation. It serves as a model for other regions to enhance their counter-terror efforts through knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation.
Conclusion
The First Capacity Building Programme is a testament to India’s commitment to global counter- terror initiatives. By collaborating with key players in Central Asian Countries, it has laid a foundation for strengthening security capabilities and fostering regional cooperation. This initiative underscores the importance of global collaboration in addressing terrorism challenges, highlighting India’s role as a catalyst for resilience against such threats.