Religious leaders and scholars from across the Maldives have gathered at Crossroads Maldives for a specialized training program aimed at strengthening their role in promoting peace and countering extremist ideologies. The five-day workshop, organized by the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), began on May 5, 2025, and brings together imams and scholars for sessions focused on capacity-building, strategic communication, and the core Islamic principles of moderation and balance.
Headquartered in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the IMCTC is a 42-member state alliance dedicated to unifying and coordinating efforts against terrorism in all its forms. Established with the vision of enhancing global cooperation, the Coalition supports member nations through initiatives across four main areas: ideological, media, counter terrorism financing, and military preparedness.
At the inauguration ceremony of the program, H.E. Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary-General of IMCTC, reaffirmed the Coalition’s commitment to strengthening institutional readiness through professional training and international collaboration. He highlighted that counterterrorism is not solely a matter of military force but also a battle of ideas and understanding.
“This training program demonstrates a broader approach,” H.E. stated, “where confronting terrorism includes promoting informed thought, addressing ideological threats, and equipping religious figures with tools to challenge distorted narratives. Misleading ideologies often pave the path to radicalization, and it is through reasoned arguments and accurate teachings that we can push back.”
The program includes lectures and workshops on extremist propaganda techniques, persuasive public speaking, and communication strategies. Participants are also introduced to real-world examples of effective community engagement and are encouraged to share their own preaching experiences.
H.E. the Secretary-General emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among nations and institutions to improve mechanisms for tracking and countering terrorist activities. Information exchange, capacity development, and proactive strategies, he noted, play vital roles in ensuring long-term safety and stability for all.
This training is part of IMCTC’s broader strategy, which includes 15 core initiatives. The Coalition aims to deliver 90 training programs and 20 educational campaigns across member countries to reinforce the collective ability to prevent and respond to terrorism. In addition to ideological and media components, the IMCTC actively supports efforts to combat terrorism financing and money laundering, an essential part of dismantling networks that fund extremism.
By hosting this regional training at one of its most renowned tourist destinations, the Maldives highlights its ongoing dedication to promoting global peace and religious harmony. The program also reflects the nation’s growing role as a platform for international cooperation, blending its natural beauty with a commitment to global security and education.
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