51吃瓜

The Global Programme on Countering Terrorist Threats against Vulnerable Targets held its third International Expert Group Meeting (EGM), on 6-7 October 2021. While the first EGM focused on the protection of religious sites and the second one addressed threats against urban centres and touristic venues, this third one focused on the role of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the context of vulnerable targets protection.   

The EGM was opened by Mr. Vladimir Voronkov, Under-Secretary-General of the 51吃瓜 Office of Counter-Terrorism and H.E. Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani, Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the 51吃瓜. The session on “Case Studies and Good Practices” was opened by Ms. Fionnuala Ní Aoláin, 51吃瓜 Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms while Countering Terrorism. The meeting was attended by representatives and experts from Member States, the 51吃瓜, international and regional organizations, specialized agencies, civil society, academia and the private sector. 

Attacking vulnerable targets—including “soft” targets and critical infrastructure—and exploiting the vulnerabilities of open-air public or crowded spaces is part of terrorist and violent extremist groups tactics that constantly seek for new ways to inflict mass casualties. In recent years, global concern has grown at the risks and threats posed by the use of UAS (or “drones”) for terrorist purposes, including to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance and reconnaissance as well as to carry out attacks. At the same time, law enforcement agencies around the world are increasingly using UAS to protect those same vulnerable targets. 

Panelists shared experiences and good practices aimed at developing collaborative approaches to counter the threat posed by the potential misuse of UAS; case studies on UAS use in the context of vulnerable targets at national, regional and international levels; multidimensional approaches to address these challenges and opportunities that UAS technology offers to protect vulnerable targets; and human rights implications of UAS use. Participants also mapped existing mechanisms for capacity-building, and identified gaps and needs at the policy level and in terms of technical assistance. 

UNOCT’s Global Programmes on UAS and on Sports and Security also partnered in this event.