Promote secularism to resist radicalisation

Lack of secular values, social injustice, culture of impunity and bad governance are the major reasons behind radicalisation, said eminent writer Shahriar Kabir.

Civil society across the world should come forward to prepare a de-radicalisation strategy as well as promote secularism and democracy to resist radicalisation, he added.

The acting president of Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee made the remarks while addressing as the key speaker at a seminar, “De-radicalising Muslim Diaspora in Europe”, organised by International Forum for Secular Bangladesh (IFSB) and the Nirmul Committee's Sweden Chapter in Stockholm on Friday, said a press release.

Speakers from Bangladesh and Europe said terrorism is a global threat and countries should work together to tackle it.

Bangladesh Ambassador to Sweden Nazmul Islam; Secretary General of Amnesty International in Stockholm Anna Linderfors; President of IFSB Akhtar M Zaman; General Secretary of Swedish Humanist Association Ulf Gustafsson, General Secretary of Swedish Pen Anna Livion Ingvarsson and Organising Secretary of All Europe Awami League Dr Biddhut Barua also spoke.

A documentary titled, “Ultimate Jihad” by Shahriar Kabir was screened at the seminar.