DUSHANBE, July 10, 2014, Asia-Plus -- A regional seminar on engaging the media in countering terrorism in Central Asia kicked off in the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek on July 9.

Organized by the United Nations Regional Center for Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNRCCA) and the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Task Force (CTITF), this three-day seminar is part of a project to support governments of Central Asia in implementing the Joint Plan of Action for implementing the UN Global Counter Terrorism Strategy, which was adopted in 2011.

According to the UNRCCA, the seminar has brought together representatives of governments, the media, regional organizations and observer countries to discuss cooperation with the media in the fight against terrorism.

The event reportedly has two specific objectives: 1) to raise awareness of the media’s role in counter-terrorism and to build the skills of Central Asian media and communications professionals in engaging in the fight against terrorism, including in developing effective counter narratives and counter incitement strategies; and 2) to raise awareness among media and communications professionals about the importance of cooperation between government and media and civil society organizations in countering the appeal of terrorism and practical and ethical means for such cooperation.