Articles

Terrorism and Extremism – the danger of society

    In the contemporary global landscape, terrorism and extremism have become some of the most critical and pervasive threats to political stability, national security, and social cohesion. These phenomena are no longer confined to specific regions or countries, but have assumed a global dimension, endangering peace, sustainable development, and the rule of law worldwide.

     Despite the implementation of numerous strategies, policies, and preventive measures by the international community, terrorist activity continues to persist — and in some areas, even intensify. Terrorist groups have increasingly adapted their tactics, using advanced technologies, social media platforms, and ideological propaganda to recruit new followers, particularly among vulnerable youth.

Root Causes of Radicalization: Social and Psychological Factors

Scholarly analysis of the underlying causes of extremism suggests a combination of socioeconomic, political, and psychological factors, including:

Poverty, unemployment, and marginalization, which contribute to feelings of hopelessness and social alienation;

Lack of access to quality education and limited critical thinking skills, making individuals more susceptible to extremist narratives;

Youth disillusionment and lack of self-actualization opportunities, pushing them to seek alternative identities or a perceived sense of justice;

Influence of unregulated digital media, which serves as a key channel for the dissemination of extremist ideologies and recruitment efforts.

In such contexts, terrorism and extremism are often deceptively presented to youth as forms of resistance or justice-seeking, when in reality, these acts pose serious threats to social order, human rights, and global peace.

Tajikistan’s Role in Combating Terrorism and Extremism

The Republic of Tajikistan, as an active member of the global community, has undertaken concrete measures to prevent and counter violent extremism at both national and international levels. The country’s anti-terrorism strategy includes:

Strengthening domestic security systems;

Promoting ideological resilience through civic education and public awareness;

Enhancing legal frameworks and counter-terrorism legislation;

Expanding regional and international cooperation in intelligence sharing and capacity building.

    Leadership of the Founder of National Unity Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, His Excellency Emomali Rahmon, has repeatedly emphasized that the fight against extremism must not be limited to security and legal responses alone. In one of his key addresses, he stated:

     “Alongside legal and political measures, we must lead an ideological and intellectual struggle against extremism and terrorism. These threats begin in the mind, and only by raising awareness especially among the youth can we protect society from their destructive influence.”

    Terrorism and extremism are no longer isolated problems they are global challenges that require coordinated responses rooted in both policy and education. Effective prevention must be multi-dimensional, focusing on security, justice, human rights, and above all, knowledge and critical thinking.

    Tajikistan's approach highlights the importance of not only safeguarding national interests but also promoting international solidarity in the face of these shared threats. Only by addressing the root causes through education, social inclusion, and ideological clarity can nations protect future generations from falling prey to violent radicalism.

Mahmadalizoda Nilufar,

assistant of the Department of

foreign language