Security and justice specialists address challenges in the fight against terrorism

Malta hosted the “Workshop on Foreign Terrorist Fighters and Migratory Flows”. The workshop organised by the European project CT Just brought together security and justice specialists from Egypt, Iraq, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia and Mauritania, as well as representatives of EUROJUST and EUROPOL, to collaboratively address these pressing global issues, in order to tackle the growing challenges posed by Foreign Terrorist Fighters (FTFs).

Workshop participants underlined the critical need for enhanced international cooperation to effectively track, pursue and manage FTFs, distinguishing migrants from criminals. Participants also delved into the complexities of integrating FTFs into migration routes, often exploiting these channels to return to their countries of origin or seek refuge in regions such as the Sahel and southern Libya, where they join other criminal activities related to, for example, resource exploitation or various illicit trafficking. This has highlighted the link between FTF movements and migration flows, emphasising the need for strong border control and strict migration management policies to prevent terrorist networks from exploiting these routes. At the same time, the need to engage local communities to properly address the root causes of the criminal economy rooted in these areas was raised.

One of the main challenges identified was the need for effective information exchange and judicial cooperation between Arab and European countries. The workshop stressed the importance of a two-way flow of information to improve the prosecution and tracing of FTFs. Participants also discussed the crucial role of technological advances, such as data analysis, biometrics and advanced communications interception tools, in modern counter-terrorism.

Another key aspect was the role of the judiciary in dealing with FTF-related issues. This includes handling evidence, integrating judicial processes with intelligence operations and navigating the complex legal frameworks governing international terrorism and related crimes. The workshop has provided a platform for the exchange of best practices in identifying, locating, arresting and prosecuting terrorists, with a particular emphasis on the management of digital and battlefield evidence.

The event also highlighted the importance of overcoming mistrust between NGOs and law enforcement agencies to improve counter-terrorism while upholding human rights, underlining the position of NGOs to contribute to the collection and management of evidence in areas where states are somewhat absent. Improving cooperation and mutual understanding between civil society and security agencies has been identified as a key strategy in this regard.

Representatives of EUROJUST and EUROPOL shared their views on their strategic roles in promoting operational cooperation and coordination of judicial and law enforcement efforts across borders. Their contributions underlined the importance of international collaboration in the fight against terrorism and illegal immigration, illustrating how these intertwined problems require a unified response.

By its conclusion, the meeting has succeeded in transcending borders, fostering a spirit of collaboration and a unified approach to counter-terrorism and the management of migration flows. It is hoped that the ideas and recommendations developed during these sessions will significantly enhance global efforts to address Foreign Terrorist Fighters and their impact on international security.