Ouagadougou: The Ministry of Communication, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), initiated a public conference on Wednesday aimed at developing common strategies against violent extremism and radicalization. Held under the theme "Creating a framework for dialogue between the Defense and Security Forces, the media and Civil Society Organizations", this conference, which brings together communication experts in the field of security and journalists, also aims to strengthen social cohesion in Burkina Faso.

According to Burkina Information Agency, during his opening speech, delivered by his representative, Jean Noel Gyengani, the Director General of Communication and Media (DGCM) emphasized the importance of this conference for the country, particularly in the face of the security and humanitarian crisis. He stressed the crucial role of the media and public communicators in the fight against extremism, emphasizing that communication can be a powerful tool to transform mindsets and strengthen social cohesion.

Jean Noel Gyengani also recalled that the fight against radicalization requires a collective commitment from all citizens and actors in society for the reconquest of the territory and the development of Burkina Faso. During these three days, several themes will be addressed, including the fight against terrorism, the proliferation of small arms, the radicalization of young people, as well as the culture of peace and civic communication.

The conference will also strengthen dialogue between journalists, security forces, and public actors to better understand and address the issues related to radicalization, thus marking an important step towards a peaceful and united society. The participants, coming from the Central, Eastern, Nakambe, Koulse and Oubri regions, aim to contribute to the development of concrete solutions to combat radicalization.