DUBAI // Government strategies promoting open religious speech are invaluable in the battle against extremism, a political analyst who has experienced radicalisation told the World Government Summit.
Abdullah bin Bijad Al Otaibi, a Saudi writer, said extremism had been bred by misguided and radicalised groups nourishing their own hatred, humiliation and frustration.
“Extremism is in the mind and results in horrendous acts. I too went down that path but thanks to reviewing and further understanding my religion, I stand before you as an advocate against radicalisation and hatred.” Mr Al Otaibi said the roots of terrorism and extremism were found in humanity.
“Hassan Al Banna, the Egyptian schoolteacher who founded the Muslim Brotherhood, said if he was given the chance, he would open schools to teach hatred to everyone,” he said.
He urged governments to promote open religious speech based on the priorities and policies of each state.
Mr Al Otaibi said groups who preached extreme versions of Islam needed to be closely monitored and that governments should ensure funding for these groups was cut.
“The fight is long but there is hope,” he said.
dmoukhallati@thenational.ae
