OTTAWA, November 25, 2013 — The Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, released a statement following a plenary discussion on terrorism and radicalization to violence at the Halifax International Security Forum today:
“The Halifax International Security Forum is a premier gathering place to discuss global security issues. I joined many prominent thinkers and decision-makers to consider the implications of terrorism and the concern over violent extremists who travel abroad to participate in terrorism. Violent extremism associated with al Qaeda ideology remains the greatest threat to the security of Canada. An understanding of domestic radicalization to violence remains critical to our ability to deal with that threat.
Since 2006, our Government has taken decisive action to address the evolving threat of terrorism. Canadian security and law enforcement agencies, working in partnership with diverse communities, have been extremely effective in preventing individuals from becoming engaged in terrorist activity; identifying those who have been radicalized to violence; denying terrorists the means and opportunity to conduct attacks; and, responding in a measured, rapid and coordinated manner. Still, terrorism is a global concern, and there is much we can learn from, and share with, our international partners and allies.
Radicalization leading to violence has been identified as a top national security threat in the Government of Canada’s 2013 Public Report on the Terrorist Threat to Canada, and this threat is being addressed through our counter-terrorism strategy. Our goal is to continue to build the resilience of our society, both domestically and globally, to all forms of crime and violence, including terrorism and violent extremist ideologies. We remain unwavering in our commitment to protect the safety and security of Canadians, our partners and our allies.”
The Halifax International Security Forum brings together leading thinkers, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world to discuss ideas and share insights on important global security challenges. Participants include senior and high-profile officials from a broad array of partner countries.
For more information on Building Resilience Against Terrorism: Canada's Counter-terrorism Strategy, the 2013 Public Report on the Terrorist Threat to Canada or the Government of Canada’s response to countering violent extremism, please visit the Public Safety Canada website at www.publicsafety.gc.ca.
