Inside Arab nation’s battle against radicalism as top official warns of threat brewing on Europe’s streets

A senior United Arab Emirates official says demonstrations in 11 European cities have become a national security threat, rather than remaining political expression. His warning comes amid concern about radicalisation and a recent Europol operation, while the UAE presents prevention and social cohesion as central to countering extremism.

UAE officials argue that intervention should begin before extremist ideas lead to violence, through education, community engagement and cooperation across countries and institutions. Europol said authorities in 16 countries had referred more than 9,000 links to extremist or terrorist material on 47 social media and gaming platforms. The UAE’s approach also draws on psychology, sociology and economic understanding, and supports rehabilitation alongside security measures.