College of Law Discusses Limiting Violent Extremism Conducive to Terrorism in a Scientific Symposium

The Human Rights Unit at the College of Law, University of Samarra, organized a scientific symposium titled “The International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism as and when Conducive to Terrorism.” The symposium was presented by Dr. Hatem Faik Mahdi, Dr. Marwan Ahmed Kamil, and Assist. Lect. Maher Abdul-Rahim Abdullah.

Marwan defined violent extremism as one of the most dangerous challenges facing international peace and security, as it does not merely stop at adopting exclusionary ideas but extends to destructive behaviors that strike at the foundations of the social contract. He emphasized that the legal protection of human rights is not just an end in itself, but an essential preventive tool.

Meanwhile, Hatem added that extremism often feeds on environments dominated by feelings of injustice or marginalization. This makes understanding the dialectical relationship between extremist thought and the terrorist impulse the first step in formulating comprehensive confrontation strategies based on the rule of law and respect for fundamental freedoms.

For his part, Maher touched upon the analysis of alignment between national counter-terrorism laws and international human rights standards. He also discussed the socio-psychological axis, focusing on “push and pull” factors, as well as the preventive axis represented by the role of the state and civil society in building community resilience.

The lecturers recommended Updating the legislative system to prevent broad interpretations and ensure fair trials, Integrating human rights education by introducing subjects on community peace and human rights, Activating the role of academic research centers and supporting human rights units in educational and pedagogical institutions, Strengthening the partnership between security and society to transition from the concept of “authoritarian security” to “Community Security.”