Following a spate of terrorist attacks, how can the concepts of democracy and accountability offer a sustainable solution to the conundrum posed by violent extremism?
While there's no silver bullet in addressing such a complex issue, Yves Leterme, secretary-general at International IDEA, told Devex associate editor Richard Jones that a sustainable solution would likely consist of a balance of people’s liberties with the provision of security for the general public — something democracy and a focus on accountability can offer.
“It’s about delivering in the long run, investing in inclusive societies [and] holding leadership accountable,” said Leterme, adding that the focus should remain on the need to hold accountable the people who perpetrate and propagate an extreme agenda.
About the author
Lean Alfred Santos@DevexLeanAS
Lean Alfred Santos is a former Devex development reporter focusing on the development community in Asia-Pacific, including major players such as the Asian Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. He previously covered Philippine and international business and economic news, sports and politics.