India Joins International Effort To Combat Online Extremism Through Christchurch Call To Action

In 2020, India became a signatory to the 'Christchurch Call to Action,' an international initiative launched by France and New Zealand aimed at curbing online extremism and violent content. The agreement was signed by 26 nations, including key players like the European Commission, Canada, Australia, and India, with the goal of encouraging voluntary measures by governments and social media companies to prevent the spread of terrorist and violent extremist material online. Notably, the United States chose not to participate, citing concerns over freedom of expression. The initiative emerged in response to the 2019 Christchurch terrorist attacks in New Zealand, where a shooter live-streamed his assault, exposing vulnerabilities in online content moderation. The Christchurch Call seeks to balance security concerns with the protection of human rights and free speech, fostering international cooperation to make digital spaces safer while respecting legal frameworks.

This collaborative effort is part of a broader global push to regulate online content and counter terrorism, involving various organizations and frameworks such as the UN Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (UN CTED), the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT), and the Global Counter Terrorism Forum (GCTF). India’s participation highlights its commitment to strengthening digital security and counter-terrorism measures, aligning with its national policies on combating extremism and promoting responsible online behavior. The initiative also signals a shift toward increased international cooperation on cyber security issues, emphasizing voluntary commitments and technological solutions to address the challenges posed by online radicalization. The non-participation of the US underscores ongoing debates over balancing security measures with constitutional protections of free speech, a tension that continues to shape global digital policy frameworks.

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Introduction: The Genesis of the Christchurch Call

The Christchurch Call to Action was born out of a tragic and shocking event that shook the world— the 2019 terrorist attacks in Christchurch, New Zealand. On March 15, 2019, a perpetrator livestreamed his assault on two mosques, leading to the deaths of 51 individuals and injuring many more. The attack was broadcast on social media platforms, primarily Facebook, and quickly spread across the internet, raising urgent questions about the role of online platforms in facilitating or preventing extremism.

This incident laid bare the vulnerabilities of digital spaces in enabling terrorist content to reach wide audiences in real time. It prompted a global re-evaluation of the responsibilities of social media companies, governments, and international organizations in combating violent extremism online. As a response, France and New Zealand launched the Christchurch Call to Action in 2020, seeking to foster international cooperation and voluntary commitments to curb online extremism.

Historical Background

The rise of the internet and social media has transformed how information is disseminated and consumed. While these platforms have democratized communication, they have also been exploited by extremist groups to radicalize individuals, recruit members, and coordinate attacks. High-profile incidents, including the 2017 Manchester attack, the 2015 Paris attacks, and the Christchurch shootings, underscored the need for effective measures to address online terrorist content.

International Efforts Preceding the Call

Before the Christchurch Call, several initiatives aimed at countering online extremism existed, such as the Global Internet Forum to Counter Terrorism (GIFCT), established in 2017 by major tech companies like Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and Twitter. Similarly, the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate (UN CTED) launched programs like Tech Against Terrorism to develop best practices and technological solutions.

However, these efforts often lacked formal international frameworks or comprehensive coordination, and debates persisted over balancing security with civil liberties, such as free speech and privacy rights. The Christchurch attack catalyzed a sense of urgency and a push for a more coordinated, global approach.

Participants and Signatories

The initiative was launched by France and New Zealand and was subsequently signed by 26 nations, including:

• European Union's European Commission
• Canada
• Australia
• United Kingdom
• Japan
• Germany
• Indonesia
• Ireland
• Norway
• Senegal
• Jordan
• India

The United States chose not to join, citing concerns over freedom of expression and press freedom.

In addition to governments, major social media companies, including Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Microsoft, committed to voluntary measures to improve content moderation and transparency.

Core Objectives and Commitments

The main objectives of the Christchurch Call include:

• Reducing online terrorist and violent extremist content: Platforms are encouraged to improve detection, removal, and reporting mechanisms.
• Enhancing transparency: Platforms agreed to share information about their moderation policies and actions.
• Supporting victims and communities: The initiative promotes the protection of vulnerable groups and fosters community resilience.
• Balancing security and human rights: Ensuring that measures respect international human rights laws, including freedom of expression.

Voluntary Framework and Implementation

Signatories commit to adopting best practices and technological solutions, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, to identify and remove harmful content swiftly. They also agree to collaborate on research, data sharing, and capacity-building initiatives.

The initiative emphasizes that these measures are voluntary, recognizing the importance of respecting legal rights and the diversity of national laws and policies.

India’s Participation

India, as a signatory, aligns with its broader strategy of strengthening internal security, counter-terrorism, and digital governance. The country has a significant online population and faces ongoing threats from various extremist groups, both domestic and international.

India’s participation reflects its recognition of the importance of international cooperation in combating online extremism, especially in the context of its own challenges with radicalization, Maoist insurgency, and cross-border terrorism.

India's Digital Security Framework

India has progressively developed policies and institutions focused on cyber security, including the National Cyber Security Policy 2013 and the Digital India initiative. It actively engages in multilateral forums such as the GCTF, where it is a founding member, advocating for responsible digital governance and counter-terrorism efforts.

Within the context of the Christchurch Call, India emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that safeguards civil liberties while enhancing security. It advocates for capacity-building, technological innovation, and international legal cooperation to address online extremism effectively.

Diplomatic and Strategic Significance

India’s signing of the Christchurch Call enhances its diplomatic stature, positioning it as a responsible global actor committed to internet safety and counter-terrorism. It also aligns with India’s strategic goal of strengthening international norms and frameworks related to digital security.

Additionally, India’s engagement signals its support for multilateral efforts to regulate online content, contrasting with unilateral or purely domestic approaches. It also seeks to leverage its technological expertise and growing digital industry to contribute meaningfully to global counter-terrorism measures.

Political and Diplomatic Dimensions

The initiative reinforces the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing transnational threats like terrorism. For India, participation underscores its desire to be seen as a proactive player in shaping global norms for digital security.

The US’s decision to abstain highlights ongoing tensions between security initiatives and the protection of civil liberties, a debate that influences international policy development. The divergence among signatories reflects differing national priorities and legal frameworks, which complicate efforts to implement unified measures.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Balancing content moderation with rights protected under international human rights laws remains a core challenge. Efforts to remove violent extremist content must avoid censorship and uphold freedom of expression, privacy, and due process rights.

India’s legal framework, including laws like the Information Technology Act, 2000, and recent amendments, provides for content regulation but also raises concerns about overreach and misuse. The Christchurch Call underscores the necessity for clear, transparent, and accountable moderation practices aligned with human rights standards.

Technological and Industry Aspects

The initiative’s reliance on technological solutions, such as AI-based content filtering, raises questions about efficacy, bias, and accountability. Tech companies play a crucial role, and their algorithms must be transparent and subject to oversight.

India’s burgeoning digital industry and technological capabilities position it as a potential leader in developing moderation tools and standards that respect rights while promoting safety. However, concerns over misinformation, hate speech, and digital surveillance necessitate careful policy calibration.

Security and Counter-Terrorism Strategies

Online radicalization remains a significant concern for India, which faces threats from groups like Naxalites, Islamic State affiliates, and other extremist entities. The Christchurch Call’s emphasis on international cooperation aligns with India’s strategy of integrating cyber and physical security measures.

India’s participation signals a recognition that online platforms are battlegrounds for counter-terrorism, requiring coordinated efforts across borders and sectors. It also emphasizes the importance of capacity-building, technological innovation, and legal reforms in tackling digital threats.

Engagement with Multilateral Forums

India’s involvement in the Christchurch Call complements its active participation in multilateral diplomatic platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), BRICS, and G20, where counter-terrorism and cyber-security are key agenda items. It demonstrates India’s commitment to shaping international norms and standards.

Balancing Sovereignty and Global Norms

India’s approach reflects a delicate balance between asserting sovereignty—especially over internet governance—and engaging in global initiatives. While supporting international cooperation, India advocates for a framework that respects national laws, cultural diversity, and civil liberties.

Strategic Partnerships and Diplomacy

Participation in the Christchurch Call enhances India’s strategic partnerships with countries like New Zealand, France, and the European Union. It also offers opportunities for bilateral cooperation on digital policy, security, and counter-terrorism.

Challenges and Future Directions

While the Christchurch Call marks a significant step, implementation remains complex. Challenges include varying legal standards, technological disparities, and differing priorities among signatories. India’s future role may involve advocating for inclusive, transparent, and rights-respecting approaches to digital security.

Conclusion: The Continuing Evolution of Digital Security and Counter-Terrorism

The Christchurch Call to Action exemplifies a critical evolution in international efforts to address online extremism. India’s participation underscores its recognition of the importance of global cooperation, technological solutions, and balanced policies that respect human rights. As digital spaces become increasingly central to security, governance, and societal well-being, India’s engagement in such initiatives will be pivotal in shaping a resilient, responsible digital future. The ongoing debates over free speech, state sovereignty, and technological accountability will continue to influence the development of international norms and national policies for years to come.