Embajada de España en Malta

The Hedayah International Research Conference 2026 (#RC26) commenced today in Valletta, Malta, bringing together government representatives, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, technology sector representatives, partners, and leaders to strengthen global cooperation in preventing and countering extremism and violent extremism. Hosted by Hedayah in partnership with the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law, the opening session featured H.E. Ahmed Al Qasimi, Executive Director of Hedayah; Reinhard Uhrig of the International Institute for Justice and the Rule of Law; Dr. Alessia Carbone of Malta’s Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs; Alexandre Zouev of the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism; and H.E. Miriam Álvarez de la Rosa, Ambassador of Spain to Malta. This morning’s discussions explored extremist use of the internet and artificial intelligence, from propaganda and digital infrastructure to exposure to harmful content in online gaming. A keynote by Erdem Tunçer of Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs examined pathways to radicalization. As the conference continues, discussions turn to emerging forms of extremism and the opportunities for artificial intelligence and technology to support prevention. A shared commitment to connecting evidence, policy, and practice sets the direction for the three days ahead. @iijmalta @MFEAMalta @UN_OCT @EmbEspMalta @MFATurkiye @BNPTRI #HedayahConference #CounteringExtremism #PEVE #CEVE #ResearchConference26