UN chief urges united efforts against extremism

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday said the world must be united against extremism to get at the roots of what fuels it.

Ban made the remarks at a press briefing following a General Assembly debate on promoting tolerance and practical strategies to counter extremism. He noted while terrorists and extremists claim religion as their guide, their ideologies are contrary to the teachings of any of the major faiths, saying "religion does not cause violence; people do."

"Faith leaders can play a very important role, and central role, in healing sectarian divides and countering the forces of radicalization," said Ban, urging the faith leaders to use spiritual and moral influence to counter extremist ideologies by promoting mutual understanding.

Ban also said the UN is going to present a comprehensive plan of action to prevent violent extremism later this year.

The two-day debate, which gathered government officials and faith leaders, started Tuesday amid the spread of extremism worldwide with attacks by Islamic State, Boko Haram, and Al Shabaab happening from time to time.