Counter-terrorism policy coordination in Central Asia: formal convergence and practical cooperation

At the beginning of the twenty-first century, the activity of international terrorist organisations intensified, prompting Central Asian countries to strengthen their counter-terrorism systems. This study examined terrorist threats in Central Asia in the context of global security trends. The main methods were statistical analysis, used to assess quantitative indicators such as the number of residents involved in extremist organisations in 2023, and the historical method, applied to trace the development of counter-terrorism policies in the region. The findings show that Central Asia remains vulnerable to terrorist and extremist activity because of its geographical position, which facilitates the transit of extremists towards Europe and creates recruitment opportunities. Young people are particularly exposed to radicalisation due to unemployment, social instability, and difficulties in making moral and ethical choices. Terrorist and extremist groups exploit these vulnerabilities to expand their influence and recruit new members. The study concludes that effective counter-terrorism policies in Central Asia should combine security measures with social and preventive mechanisms aimed at reducing radicalisation risks. The findings may be used as a practical basis for developing strategies and roadmaps to counter terrorism and extremism in the region.