As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of Covid-19, new and ongoing conflicts, as well as the perfect storm of climate change, biodiversity degradation and multiple forms of pollution, we are seeing a growing sense of insecurity and polarisation that increasingly translates into threats to the core fabric of our societies.
The UNDP Human Development Report 2021/2022 highlights that this rising insecurity is not limited to countries with a low Human Development Index (HDI). Even countries with a high HDI show increased levels of anxiety and stress among their populations. The report further highlights how more than six in seven people at the global level were feeling insecure, even before the pandemic struck.
But what is driving this trend towards increased anxiety, stress and insecurity that can lay the foundation for radicalisation and escalate to violence and extremism?
A closer examination of the root causes reveals a complex interplay of socio-political and economic factors, including growing inequality, perceptions of injustice, corruption, discrimination, and the marginalisation of minorities. The additional threats, many human-induced, to our ecosystems, and questions regarding our ability or even commitment to sustainably manage them, add to these causes.
The role of the media in normalising violence and spreading fake news, thereby challenging trust, as well as psychological factors such as alienation and a search for identity, also play a crucial role that can drive radicalisation.
At a global level, member states of the United Nations have acknowledged that extremism has reached a level of threat and sophistication that requires concerted actions that go beyond just military and security measures to counter it.
To truly prevent extremism, addressing its root causes through promoting development, good governance, and human rights is imperative.
Thailand, with the approval by the cabinet in September 2022 by Cabinet of the “Guidelines on Strengthening Co-existence amidst Social Diversity”, put forward by the Office of the National Security Council, is also acknowledging the importance and urgency of preventing extremism.
The UNDP welcomes these guidelines as a demonstration of Thailand's support and alignment with the UN Secretary-General's Plan of Action on Preventing Violent Extremism, itself based on a resolution passed by the General Assembly 70/254 on Feb 12, 2016.
The guidelines promote a multi-sector approach to fostering social cohesion by involving all sectors of society, from government and the private sector to the general public and civil society. It also calls for the engagement of all relevant ministries and departments to tackle the individual and structural factors that can lead to hate-based and extremist ideologies.
As we mark on Feb 12 the International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism, the UNDP calls on all sectors of society in Thailand to converge their efforts to jointly identify the solutions needed to strengthen social cohesion through trust-based dialogues, and with a dose of empathy and solidarity that the uncertainties of our times require.
The upcoming elections provide a pivotal moment for Thailand to come together and make a collective choice through a democratic process as to the way ahead.
Thai citizens now have the opportunity to give power to decision-makers whom they trust will be able and willing to heal divides, tackle the pressing environmental threats, address complex social and economic challenges, and bolster effective inclusive governance that takes forward Thailand's vision for a Bio-Circular Green Economy model.
This will create an enabling environment where a peaceful and cohesive society can accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Renaud Meyer is the UNDP Resident Representative in Thailand. The article marks International Day for the Prevention of Violent Extremism which falls on Feb 12.
