In an initiative aimed at combating online radicalization, the European Union, in collaboration with the Global Counter-Terrorism Council (GCTC) and India’s Ministry of External Affairs, is set to host a pivotal regional conference on August 21-22. The EU-India Track 1.5 Conference, taking place in New Delhi, will address current and emerging threats of extremism in digital spaces.
The conference will bring together top experts, policymakers, academia, and law enforcement from both South Asia – comprising India, Bangladesh, Maldives, and Sri Lanka – and Europe. This assembly aligns with the EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, aiming to deepen engagements with strategic partners to combat digital extremism. Key discussions will focus on exploring collaborative measures to tackle the challenges posed by technology in terrorism.
This event is part of ongoing EU-India counterterrorism efforts, building on the EU project “Enhancing Security Cooperation In and With Asia” (ESIWA), which has previously tackled issues such as drone terrorism and cybersecurity. The conference will further discuss the intersection of technology and terrorism and identify potential areas for joint action against violent extremism online.
Representatives from India will include high-level officials and specialists from the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Indian Army, and Indian Police. Their European counterparts will include security practitioners from EU institutions, member states like Austria, Italy, and Germany, and agencies such as the European Border & Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) and the European Counter Terrorism Centre (Europol).
H.E. Hervé Delphin, the EU Ambassador to India, emphasized the importance of collaboration in this digital era, stating, “Terrorism has transcended physical borders, exploiting digital platforms for its spread. It is crucial to unite in knowledge and expertise to effectively counter these threats while balancing security measures with citizens’ fundamental rights.”
Delphin further noted the proactive role of the EU in regulating digital spaces to prevent the spread of extremist content. “By sharing our regulatory experiences and enforcement strategies, we aim to strengthen our collective defense against transnational terrorism,” he added, highlighting the EU’s ongoing initiatives like the Terrorist Content Online (TCO) Regulation and the Digital Services Act.
KD Dewal, India’s Joint Secretary for Counter Terrorism, reaffirmed India’s commitment to the cause, stating, “With a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, India is dedicated to fostering international cooperation to confront and counter terrorist activities, ensuring that terrorism is neither justified nor glorified.”
The dialogue at the conference is expected to significantly advance the EU-India Strategic Partnership, particularly in strengthening international cooperation in counterterrorism. This collaboration underscores the global commitment to combat terrorism in all its forms and to enhance safety and security across both regions.