Global Counterterrorism Forum: Addressing the risks linked to the use of new and emerging technologies by terrorists

The GCTF Coordinating Committee, co-chaired by the European Union (EU) and Egypt, held its 26^th meeting in Brussels on 10 June 2026. About 31 members and partners gathered in Brussels to align on future thematic priorities, including counterterrorism challenges posed by emerging technologies. In addition to the launch of a new GCTF resource on the nexus between climate change and violent extremism conducive to terrorism, the Forum launched a new Initiative on preparedness and response to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear emergencies caused by acts of terrorism.

Addressing the implications of new and emerging technologies for counterterrorism

Marking 15 years of the GCTF, the Coordinating Committee also took stock of the Forum's value to the global counterterrorism architecture as a consensus-based platform that shapes forward-looking, non-binding policy - as well as practical guidance.

As an informal body that can address emerging challenges in an agile manner, the Coordinating Committee aligned on prioritising the countering of terrorist use of new and emerging technologies such as AI-generated content, encrypted communications, autonomous systems, and algorithmic amplification. The landscape around such threats is evolving rapidly and poses critical challenges for states globally. GCTF Members will work with other institutions inspired by the Forum and the United Nations Global Counterterrorism Coordination Compact to support and reinforce efforts to build capacity in these areas.

European Union, 2026

Climate Change and violent extremism: New GCTF Resource launched

The Nairobi Toolkit on Addressing the Nexus between Climate Change and Violent Extremism Conducive to Terrorism* was presented by Germany, Kenya, and the Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund. The toolkit provides recommendations and practical guidance for policymakers and practitioners on the nexus which is indirect, context-specific, and mediated by social, political, and economic factors. Learn more about the toolkit here.

New Initiative to tackle Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Risks

The Forum launched the newly-formed GCTF Initiative on Preparedness and Response to Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) Emergencies Caused by Acts of Terrorism. Led by Spain and Morocco, the Initiative aims to strengthen international cooperation in responding to terrorist acts involving CBRN and enhance global preparedness and response by baking them into counterterrorism strategies. Learn more about the Initiative here.

*GCTF Recommendations, Memoranda, Good Practices and other guiding documents are non-binding, and their implementation should always respect national sovereignty and consider countries' varied histories, cultures, legal systems, and norms.