Touhid urges global unity to counter extremism, armed groups

Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain today spoke at a special session at the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain.

Foreign Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain today called for coordinated international action to tackle rising threats from extremism and non-state armed groups, emphasising intelligence sharing, border security, and financial oversight to disrupt transnational networks.

He made the call while speaking at a special session titled “Non-State Power and Influence: Regional and Transnational Challenges” during the 21st IISS Manama Dialogue in Bahrain.

Hossain highlighted how non-state actors exploit porous borders, illicit trade, displacement, and digital platforms to advance radical agendas.

“The fight against extremism will ultimately be won in classrooms, communities, and in the minds of our youth,” he said, stressing inclusive cooperation among governments, civil society, and international partners.

Reaffirming Bangladesh’s firm stance, Hossain noted that no non-state armed groups are allowed to operate within the country.

Referring to the prolonged Rohingya crisis, he added that Bangladesh continues to host over 1.3 million forcibly displaced people from Myanmar, who fled persecution and violence by Myanmar’s military and non-state armed groups.

He urged the international community to stay engaged to ensure refugees’ safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation, warning that prolonged uncertainty could make the displaced population vulnerable to exploitation and destabilize the region.

The session was attended by ministers, dignitaries, and representatives from multiple countries and international organisations, including the European Union and NATO. Bangladesh Ambassador to Bahrain Md. Rais Hasan Sarower and Director General (West Asia) Md. Humayun Kabir accompanied the adviser.