20.08.2025 Denmark's Statement on the UNSC Briefing on the Threat Posed by ISIL

Checked Against Delivery

Thank you, Mr. President. 

And thank you to the briefers.
 
Colleagues, 

We are once again reminded that ISIL is far from defeated. The group continues to adapt, evolve, and exploit instability—both in the physical world and increasingly in the digital one. 

Let me highlight three points: 

First, the geography of the threat is shifting, but the methods are also changing. 

Africa remains a key battleground—from the Sahel to Somalia, DRC and Mozambique. Sahel alone now accounts for over half of global terrorism deaths, with spillover into Benin, Togo, and other neighbouring states. The international community must act together. This means investing in peacebuilding, strengthening UN efforts on the ground, and supporting relevant, legitimate, and regionally led security frameworks. 

ISIL affiliates thrive in fragile environments, building influence through violence, propaganda, organised crime, and the exploitation of weak governance—often in settings where women and girls bear a disproportionate burden. 

What is also worrying in this report is the group’s growing use of new technologies. We now see terrorists recruiting cyber experts and experimenting with AI for propaganda purposes. We also see how groups exploit new technology—including drones, crypto-currencies and encrypted networks—to stay below the radar. 

These developments constitute a strategic shift which must be taken seriously. Terrorism is moving into new domains—faster than many states and institutions are able to follow. We need to ensure that our shared tools and institutions are ready for these new challenges. 

The use of AI, cyber tactics and other new technologies must be matched by modern and enforceable countermeasures. 

Second, we need to ensure our response is both agile and coordinated. 

Denmark supports ongoing work to modernize the UN’s counter-terrorism architecture. We need a system that is effective, accountable, and able to respond to threats that cross borders—and platforms. At the same time, we must protect tools that work. 

Several delegations today have mentioned the 1267 regime. As Chair of the 1267 Committee, Denmark will continue to promote effective and principled sanctions against ISIL and its networks while safeguarding human rights and the rule of law. This includes supporting timely listings, regular updates, consistent follow-ups by Member States and the vital work of the Ombudsperson. In this work, the efforts of UN entities and the FATF to help Member States identify and detect and address terrorist financing risks are essential. 

Third and last, prevention must remain central. 

ISIL continues to exploit the online space to radicalize and recruit—especially young people. The UN and Member States must step up efforts invest in digital literacy, community resilience, and counter-narratives grounded in human rights, the rule of law and human dignity. We therefore welcome the initiatives highlighted in this report on engaging youth and preventing misuse of gaming platforms and social media. But more is needed, above all practical, locally-led initiatives that offer real alternatives—be it education, sport, or economic opportunities. 

At the same time, we must not lose sight of the offline realities that fuel radicalization and insecurity. In this regard, we welcome the increased repatriation efforts from camps in northeast Syria—but tens of thousands still remain, including some 30,000 people in Al Hol and Al Roj, 60 percent of which are children. With the future camp management uncertain, their continued confinement carries risks for security and human rights alike. 

Mr. President, in closing,

ISIL is adapting. So must we. This means addressing root causes—but also responding to the new tools, tactics, and terrains of terrorism. Our counter-terrorism efforts must evolve—not just in geography, but in mindset, coordination, and capability. 

Denmark remains committed to working with partners to shape a response that is principled, modern, and fit for purpose—and importantly to ensure that the UN remains a relevant and effective platform in this effort. 

Thank you.