Security Council Renews Mandate of its Counterterrorism Executive Directorate

Press Statement
Philip J. Crowley
Assistant Secretary, Bureau of Public Affairs
Washington, DC
December 20, 2010


The United States welcomes today’s adoption of UN Security Council resolution 1963. By renewing the mandate of the UN Counterterrorism Executive Directorate (CTED) for another three years, the Security Council highlights its continued strong support for the important work CTED has been doing with national counterterrorism practitioners and policymakers to bolster the counterterrorism capacities in key countries and regions. Whether in the Horn of Africa, the Sahel, or South Asia, CTED has proven itself to be uniquely placed to bring together local officials from countries in the region to identify practical solutions to common counterterrorism challenges.

The United States views the United Nations as a key partner in the collective effort to combat and prevent terrorism and remains committed to deepening and broadening its partnership with the global body.

The new resolution reinforces four core elements of US counterterrorism policy: First, the importance of building the capacity of partners to be able to tackle terrorist threats emanating from their territory; second, that respect for human rights and the rule of law are an essential part of a successful counterterrorism effort; third the need for comprehensive strategies to address the threat effectively, recognizing that “terrorism will not be defeated by military force, law enforcement measures, and intelligence operations alone,” and that there is also “the need to promote the rule of law, the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, good governance, tolerance, inclusiveness to offer a viable alternative to those who could be susceptible to terrorist recruitment and to radicalization leading to violence,” and finally, recognition of the invaluable role that civil society and local communities play in our common effort to combat terrorism and counter violent extremism.

Under the capable leadership of its Executive Director, Ambassador Mike Smith, CTED has shown itself to be an increasingly reliable partner and the United States looks forward to further strengthening this partnership in the years ahead.



PRN: 2010/1844