A 9/11 Narrative of Hope for Peace from GCTI

Today, we pause to remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001. It is a day seared into our collective memory, not just as an attack on America, but on humanity. Families, friends, and communities across the globe continue to feel the weight of that day, and at the Global Counter-Terrorism Institute (GCTI), we stand in solidarity with those who carry the loss in their hearts. We do not forget the pain, the sacrifice, or the call to action that arose in the aftermath of 9/11.

However, we also reflect on the hope for peace that must follow such profound tragedy. We must remember that the most effective way to diminish terrorism is not through violence, but through understanding, diplomacy, and collaboration. Terrorism does not exist in a vacuum. It is shaped by factors such as political instability, socio-economic challenges, ideological extremism, and disenfranchisement. These factors differ across regions, from places with well-defined borders to those without, from ideologies rooted in religion to those based on politics or ethnic division.

At GCTI, we believe that the ideal approach to diminishing terrorism is by fostering public diplomacy projects that address these diverse and complex factors. Each region of the world faces its own unique challenges, and the solutions must be tailored accordingly. Whether in a country with distinct borders or a territory that transcends them, the root causes of terrorism must be addressed through projects that promote education, socio-economic development, and political stability. By offering alternatives to violence and extremism, we help build a foundation for lasting peace.

We are committed to continuing this mission, with a firm belief that hope for peace can prevail when we invest in the right strategies. Our community at GCTI remains vigilant, understanding that terrorism manifests differently in various places, but always with the knowledge that diplomacy, cooperation, and human dignity are the keys to lasting security.

Let us honor those we lost by fostering a world in which the horrors of 9/11 are never repeated. Together, through diplomacy and dedication, we can build a future of peace.

Todd M. Price MBA, Ph.D.(c)

Chair, Master’s in International Security Studies Program

President, Global Counter-Terrorism Institute

+1(541)350-0997 | todd.price@globalctinstitute.org