NGOs are partners of governmental bodies in the prevention of religious extremism

In the work of preventing religious extremism and terrorism, great hopes are placed on religious associations, Vice-Minister of Social Development Berik Aryn said during the Republican conference on «The role of public institutions in the prevention of religious extremism and terrorism».

According to the Vice-Minister, the active position of the expert community, scientific and creative intelligentsia, and mass media, which should give an intellectual rebuff to the spread of extremist ideas, is particularly important. Through the efforts of humanitarian scientists, theologians and official clergy, it is necessary to expose the anti-human ideology of extremists and terrorists in a timely manner, and to show the distortion of the true essence of religious teachings by the bearers of these ideas.

«In this work, we have high hopes for officially registered religious associations in the country, primarily traditional ones, as reliable partners who have historically played a key role in solving the problems of spiritual development of our society. As part of our cooperation, we have signed memoranda with the Duma and the Russian Orthodox Church», Berik Aryn said.

Efforts to prevent religious extremism and terrorism are being made with the participation of non-governmental organizations. A network of regional consultation centers has been created. The centers provide advice on religious issues. Their employees hold personal meetings with leaders and activists of destructive trends. In addition, they organize lectures and seminars for law enforcement agencies and akimats.

Active cooperation built with such NGOs as the «Committee of counter-terrorism», «Congress of religious scholars», «Association of centers for the study of religions», «Uakyp», advocacy and rehabilitation center «Akniet», etc. 29 NGOs became partners of the Ministry in this direction.

It should be noted that the conference was attended by representatives of interested state bodies, public and religious associations, representatives of the Parliament of the Republic of Kazakhstan, religious scholars and experts, who expressed their suggestions for improving the work aimed at preventing religious extremism and terrorism among the population, including young people.