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Organized by the Coordination Centre of Belgorod National Research University (BelSU), the event featured Margarita��Varfolomeeva, an employee of the centre, and Olga��Lyutova, director of the BelSU International Information Centre, as moderators.

Maria Vinichenko, director of the Coordination Centre, emphasized the importance of understanding the legal landscape for foreign citizens in the host country. She highlighted the necessity of being aware of basic laws and the potential consequences for offenses that may not be considered criminal in their home countries. While language proficiency is beneficial, it does not guarantee immunity from involvement in illegal activities.

Dmitry Bukshenko, a senior detective with the Centre for Combating Extremism at the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia for the Belgorod Region, provided students with insights into how a seemingly innocuous conversation with a stranger could lead to recruitment by extremist or terrorist organizations. He also discussed the legal repercussions associated with extremist crimes.

During the discussion, it became apparent that many students were unclear about the distinction between ‘extremism’ and ‘terrorism.’ The organizers reminded participants that terrorism is a manifestation of the broader phenomenon of extremism. Recruiters often exploit individuals’ beliefs and emotions, preparing them for illegal actions that can culminate in acts of terrorism.

Heated debates on various social, economic, political, and geopolitical issues can sometimes lead individuals down the path of illegal activities.

One of the key recommendations from the meeting was to promptly report any suspicious behaviour to law enforcement agencies and to steer clear of individuals who promote extremist ideologies or encourage extreme statements. This caution is essential to avoid falling prey to professional recruiters, who frequently employ blackmail to draw students into illicit activities.