Kerry`s emphasis on good governance to fight terrorism

THE US Secretary of State John Kerry did not miss the opportunity to call for promotion of human rights and good governance, which are equally important in combating extremism. His assertion that democracy is pivotal to fight against terrorism also sounded a timely reminder when most democratic institutions are emasculated in Bangladesh. He is right when he said the nation must uphold democratic values to fight terrorists and make the society safe. It appears that John Kerry did not disagree that our terrorism is homegrown, but said ISIS has influence over our terrorism. We must say that terrorism grows out of chaos and bad governance. If not remedial measures are taken the government dependence on fire-power allows the ISIS to take advantage of it and responds with the higher weapons and better training. The spectacular example is Iraq and Syria.  Kerry’s emphasis on building national consensus needs to be heeded by the leadership at all levels at this moment. But the question is if the government can change its political objective of establishing authoritarianism of one-party rule. Like terrorism democracy needs international cooperation. Assad is an example of how his authoritarianism is being protected by Russia. The US has accepted the weakness that ISIS is the reaction to its atrocities and supreme humiliation perpetrated against Muslims. They cannot deny. Terrorism against terrorism is more terrorism and not peace and security.