Central Asian leaders gathered in Astana on November 6 to discuss strategies for addressing the potential risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of extremism. The meeting was part of the Aqaba Process, focusing on how terrorist groups might exploit AI technologies.
The discussions highlighted the use of AI tools, including deep fakes, for spreading propaganda and assisting in recruitment efforts for militant organizations. These technologies can also complicate government efforts to investigate terrorist activities.
Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced Tashkent’s readiness to host a regional branch of the United Nations’ Office of Counter-Terrorism. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration among Central Asian states in areas such as reporting terrorist content and training specialists, as well as detecting terrorist financing. Mirziyoyev emphasized that AI could improve the ability of governments to monitor and disrupt militant activities.
In addition to security concerns, Mirziyoyev discussed the potential of AI to broaden educational access and create economic opportunities, thereby making individuals less vulnerable to radical ideologies. “Quality education and the creation of conditions for people to realize their full potential are considered an important foundation of security,” according to a statement from Mirziyoyev’s office.
The president also proposed a new initiative named “Enlightenment Against Ignorance in the Digital Age,” which would be managed by Tashkent’s Center for Islamic Civilization.
Central Asian leaders continue to be wary of security threats from militant groups operating from Afghanistan, particularly as Tajikistan has experienced multiple armed incidents along its border in the past year. The Taliban’s control of northern provinces near Central Asia remains unstable, with reports of increased clashes involving Taliban forces and other groups.
ISIS-K, a militant group operating in the region, has been specifically noted for its recruitment of Central Asian individuals. Brianne Todd, a security expert at the National Defense University, provided testimony to the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee in June, stating that ISIS-K utilizes a network of Central Asian operatives to extend its influence internationally. She noted that the group’s use of the internet has evolved, employing sophisticated propaganda techniques and AI-generated content to reach a specific audience.
The Aqaba Process was initiated by Jordan in 2015 to promote cooperation and resource sharing on security issues. In addition to Mirziyoyev, the meeting included Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Jordan’s King Abdullah, and the leaders of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, along with senior representatives from Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan.
