Malé, 6 October 2025 – The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) launched on Monday in the Maldivian capital, Malé, the agenda of the training programme titled “Analysis of Extremist Discourse, Hate Speech in Digital Media: Smart Countering Tools and Technologies.” The programme brings together thirty trainees from the Republic of Maldives, representing various media and academic institutions, as part of a series of strategic media initiatives implemented by IMCTC, which comprises 43 member states including Malaysia, to build the capabilities of media professionals and sharpen their skills in countering extremism while promoting the values of moderation and tolerance

The launch of the programme was attended by Her Excellency Fathmath Mizna Ali, Deputy Minister of Defence of the Republic of Maldives, along with several civilian and military officials.

The programme is intended to enable journalists and media professionals to analyse digital content, understand the nature of extremist discourse and hate speech in digital environments, and address it using smart, professional methods. These include conducting thorough content analysis, tracking the sources of misinformation, and utilising modern digital verification tools. The programme also aims to raise awareness of the psychological and social impacts of extremist discourse and to enhance participants’ skills in crafting responsible, analytical reports that contribute to improving the quality of media discourse and directing it towards serving intellectual and societal security.

The training programme focuses on several interconnected themes, including understanding the nature of extremist and hate speech and analysing its structure and motives. It also examines the technical and digital tools used in analysing speech across media platforms, along with smart countering techniques and best practices in mitigating the spread of hate speech through digital media, including awareness-raising campaigns and impactful media initiatives.

In her speech during the launch of the “Peace Journalists” programme, Her Excellency Fathmath Mizna Ali, Deputy Minister of Defence of the Republic of Maldives, stressed that the programme is a testament to the fruitful cooperation between IMCTC and the National Counter Terrorism Centre. She also commended the support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in further building capabilities and addressing extremism.

Her Excellency went on to add that the programme aims to broaden the role of the media in countering hate speech and promoting a culture of peace, and she emphasised that accuracy and verification of news are true Islamic values. She concluded her speech by appreciating IMCTC’s efforts in supporting institutions and building societies that reject extremism and hatred.

The programme targets media professionals, journalists, academics, and civil sector personnel, with the purpose of enhancing their professional capabilities to address the challenges of digital radicalisation and to foster a positive media discourse based on professionalism and social responsibility.

The implementation of this programme falls within the communications strategic initiatives launched by IMCTC as part of its ongoing efforts to build capacities and strengthen partnerships with member states in the fields of media, awareness, and education, in fulfilment of IMCTC’s vision of uniting intellectual and media efforts to counter terrorism and extremism and to promote a culture of peace and coexistence among nations.