Combating the Financing of Terrorism

THE IDEA

Since 9/11, terrorist financing has been at the top of the international agenda. Tremendous efforts and large financial sums have been invested to build up efficient anti-terrorist financing systems. Eight years later, while impressive inroads have been made, maximising the effectiveness of these systems remains a challenge and concrete results are still difficult to identify.

What are the challenges in combating the financing of terrorism today? Co-operation between Governments and financial institutions must be improved to enable the targeting, seizing, freezing, and confiscation of terrorist assets. The mechanisms required by international standard-setters must be implemented effectively in the domestic legal framework of each country. If fundamental and universally recognised human rights standards are considered an obstacle to countering the threat of terrorism, the terrorists have won. The use and sharing of intelligence must remain an essential component in the implementation of efficient anti-terrorist financing measures.

In October 2007, over 100 experts from 33 countries met in Giessbach, Switzerland, to discuss some of these ongoing challenges and develop practical solutions to the main issues in question. Participants of this international seminar came from law enforcement, financial institutions, FIUs, regulators, supervisors and international organisations. The diverse composition of experts with both private and public sector backgrounds allowed for an extensive exchange of different views. It also provided a unique opportunity for networking.

The so-called “GIESSBACH II” Seminar will take place in October 2008 in Davos, Switzerland and builds upon the experiences and discussions of last year. Again, the Seminar will take place in a scenic location in the middle of the Swiss Alps. The legendary Hotel Schatzalp is located 1800 meters above sea level and achieved world fame as the setting of Thomas Mann’s classic novel “The Magic Mountain”. We hope that you too will experience the magic. The number of available seminar seats is limited and will be given on a first come, first serve basis.

I look forward to welcoming you to the Giessbach process.

Daniel Thelesklaf
Basel Institute on Governance