Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF) workshop

Act! was honored to participate in the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF) workshop, co-hosted with the National Counter Terrorism Centre – Kenya. The workshop provided a platform to engage with partners and stakeholders on advancing strategies for preventing and countering violent extremism (PCVE). At our booth, we highlighted how evidence, practice, and community engagement are shaping more inclusive and effective approaches to peace and security.
The workshop convened distinguished delegates from across Africa, the Middle East, Europe & the United States. Discussions highlighted the complex roles that both women and men play in recruitment, resistance, and resilience, underscoring the importance of gender-responsive strategies in PCVE efforts.
The forum also reinforced the value of community-led solutions to violent extremism, strengthening local peace infrastructures, building trust between communities and security actors, and fostering inclusive dialogue. Act! shared lessons from our recently concluded ARIVE program, funded by GCERF (Global Community Engagement and Resilience Fund) to demonstrate how communities can lead the way in building long-term resilience.
The GCTF workshop reaffirmed a critical insight: sustainable peace is only possible when communities are empowered, included, and supported.
Act! remains deeply committed to promoting resilient and peaceful societies by working hand-in-hand with local actors, national stakeholders, and international partners. Together, we can close the gaps that violent extremism seeks to exploit.