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“When people are oppressed, and human rights are denied - particularly along sectarian lines or ethnic lines - when dissent is silenced, it feeds violent extremism, it creates an environment that is ripe for terrorists to exploit. When peaceful, democratic change is impossible, it feeds into the…” quote by Barack Obama
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“When people are oppressed, and human rights are denied - particularly along sectarian lines or ethnic lines - when dissent is silenced, it feeds violent extremism, it creates an environment that is ripe for terrorists to exploit. When peaceful, democratic change is impossible, it feeds into the terrorist propaganda that violence is the only answer available.”

Barack Obama

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Terrorism and Human Rights, United Nations General Assembly, 2015

Oppression and denial of rights foster extremist narratives, making terrorism appear as the sole solution when peaceful change is blocked.

In simple terms: Denying rights fuels terrorism.

Key Takeaway

Address oppression to reduce extremism.

Themes

human rights oppression terrorism political dissent propaganda

Mood

concerned urgent reflective

Type

political analytical warning

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • humanitarian aid
  • community outreach
  • media strategy

Key Concepts

social justice radicalization state violence peaceful reform

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies protect dissent without inciting violence?
  • What policies best prevent extremist recruitment?
A Different Perspective

Extremism also stems from other factors like ideology and poverty.

2.9 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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