Geneva: The State of Qatar has affirmed that countering terrorism and violent extremism remains a shared priority for the international community, emphasizing that such efforts must fully respect international law and fundamental human rights. These remarks were delivered by Reem Nasser Al Muraikhi, third political researcher at the Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during her participation at Item 3 - the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, as part of the 61st session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva.

According to Qatar News Agency, Al Muraikhi stressed that counterterrorism measures must not serve as a pretext for violating freedoms or discriminating against peoples under occupation, whose legitimate right to self-determination is guaranteed by international law. She emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to effectively address terrorism, one that tackles its root causes, such as conflicts, deprivation, marginalization, and hate speech, by promoting sustainable development, strengthening the rule of law, and supporting education and intercultural dialogue.

Al Muraikhi highlighted Qatar's adherence to international standards in this area, ensuring a balance between security measures and development policies, while strengthening international cooperation and respect for the rule of law and human rights. She further noted Qatar's ongoing commitment to combat terrorism through bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation, supporting relevant international initiatives, including hosting the International Hub on Behavioral Insights to Counter Terrorism and the Office on Parliamentary Engagement in Preventing and Countering Terrorism.