Experts at a United Nations (UN) panel hosted by Pakistan have warned that terrorist organisations are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI), encrypted communication tools, and digital (crypto) currencies to expand their reach and evade detection, marking a major shift in the global security landscape.
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The discussion took place at a meeting organised by Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the UN in collaboration with the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism. Diplomats, security analysts, and academic experts highlighted how extremist networks are becoming more decentralised, technologically sophisticated, and difficult to track.
Press Release
Pakistan–UNOCT Event at UN Highlights Evolving Terrorism Threats, Urges Global Action on AI, Digital Platforms and Crypto Financing
United Nations, 24th April 2026:* The Permanent Mission of Pakistan, together with the United Nations Office of Counter Terrorism… pic.twitter.com/jQbayJWqFQ
— Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanUN_NY) April 25, 2026
Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, told the panel that the threat environment is rapidly evolving, driven by rising online radicalisation, xenophobia, and gaps in global counter-terrorism frameworks. He also pointed to challenges in regulating social media platforms and ensuring accountability for tech companies operating across borders.
Together with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), the Pakistan Mission hosted a joint event on the theme of “New and Emerging Trends in Terrorism”. Held at the UN headquarters, the event brought together policy practitioners, academics, diplomats, civil… pic.twitter.com/4KLJ1S5YE2
— Permanent Mission of Pakistan to the UN (@PakistanUN_NY) April 24, 2026
Officials from the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism said terrorism has become “multipolar and sophisticated,” with groups now relying heavily on encrypted messaging apps, AI-generated propaganda, and virtual financial systems. These tools allow them to recruit members, spread misinformation, and coordinate activities without traditional command structures.
Experts noted that while conventional funding channels still exist, there is growing experimentation with cryptocurrencies and digital wallets to move funds discreetly. The use of social media platforms for recruitment and psychological influence has also become more advanced, making early detection more difficult.
The panel further discussed ongoing threats from militant groups operating in different regions, including South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, as well as the increasing use of ungoverned spaces for operational planning combined with digital coordination across borders.
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The meeting comes as the UN reviews its Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy, with member states pushing for updated policies that address technology-driven threats. Pakistan, currently serving on the UN Security Council for 2025–26, reiterated its call for a comprehensive approach combining security measures with efforts to address underlying causes of instability.