Addressing attendees at a session entitled 'The Making of an Extremist' on day one of the World Government Summit, WGS, 2017, Abdullah bin Bijad Al-Otaibi, Saudi writer and political analyst, focussing on the need to face terrorism head on and fight the plague that has spread across the world, said, "Extremism is in the mind, and it results in horrendous acts. I too went down that path, but thanks to reviewing and further understanding my religion, I stand before you as an advocate against radicalisation and hatred."

He discussed the fundamentals of terrorism and extremism, the roots of which, he stated, are found in the roots of humanity, every human being can love or hate. "Extremism has been bred by misguided and radicalised groups nourishing their own hatred, humiliation and frustration, and fostering these emotions in others to spread its negativity."

To combat extremism, Al Otaibi highlighted that governments around the world need to develop a comprehensive strategy to promote open religious speech, based on the priorities and policies of each state. Similarly, the legislative systems should incorporate the increasing need to monitor such conversations. He noted that governments need to immediately ensure that funding for these groups is cut, so that radicalisation is contained.

"The fight is long,' he said, "but there is hope. Many regions and cultures have suffered from radicalisation and extremism. This is not limited to any specific religion or region. In fact, one cannot say that it is caused due to dictatorship rule, or social status, as some of the most prominent terrorists are also very well off financially."

The World Government Summit, #WGS 2017, has drawn the participation of more than 4,000 personalities from 139 countries around the world, reflecting the leading stature of the summit on regional and international levels and the high interest from governments, global organisations, private and public sector entities, decision makers, entrepreneurs, academics and university students as well as scientists and innovators.

The event features 150 speakers across 114 sessions that highlight the world’s most pressing challenges and showcase the best practices and cutting-edge solutions to deal with them.