The United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), in collaboration with the Indonesian National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) organized the Experts' Dialogue on "Technology and Security: Prevention, Detection, and Response to Chemical Terrorism and Organized Crime Activities". The event took place on 22–23 November 2023 in Jakarta, Indonesia, as part of the project "Building a Safer South-East Asia by Preventing and Responding to the Use of Chemical Weapons by Terrorists and Other Non-State Actors in Indonesia", which was formally launched in November 2022 in Jakarta. The project, funded by the U.S. Department of State, is jointly implemented by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and UNICRI, in close collaboration with BNPT. The event also involved UNICRI’s SIRIO initiative, aimed at analyzing and promoting knowledge on technology-based solutions for addressing emerging security risks.
The primary aim of the Experts' Dialogue was to reinforce the collective efforts of Member States in combating the threats of chemical terrorism and organized crime activities. The dialogue centered on deepening the understanding of the intricate nexus between science, technology, and security. Sessions specifically targeted a better comprehension of the risks associated with the acquisition, production, and use of chemical hazardous materials. The event delved into the potential infiltration of these materials into the legitimate supply chain and identified cutting-edge science and technology solutions to prevent and counter such risks.
Attended by 30 representatives from various Indonesian government agencies and with over 20 participants from the industry sector, the Experts' Dialogue fostered collaboration between government and industry stakeholders. Delegations from Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand also participated, promoting exchanges and strengthening partnerships at the regional level. Experts from the private sector and research laboratories played a crucial role in enhancing knowledge of technology solutions and their potential benefits.
During the event, participants engaged in discussions to explore ways to reinforce national and regional strategies, focusing not only on preventing chemical terrorism and organized crime threats but also on identifying new areas requiring research and technological developments.
Through the sharing of knowledge and expertise in exercises and group discussions, the Experts' Dialogue empowered participants to identify existing, new, and emerging technological trends and their applications, enhancing their capacities to address both current and emerging challenges.
