Terrorism and Counterterrorism in a Changing World

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the definitional debates surrounding the concept of terrorism and different types of terrorism, notably the difference between state terrorism and sub-state terrorism or terrorism from below. It analyzes trends in state terrorism and sub-state terrorism, in the context of other more substantive threats to security. It examines the main responses to sub-state terrorism and assesses the response to the 9/11 attacks, the state of the ‘Global War on Terror’ and the likelihood of a reconsideration of the nature of the response. This paper considers the existence of terrorism in the context of globalization. It then discusses the several different elements involved in combating international terrorism, including dissuading individuals from joining terrorist groups, dissuading groups from using terrorism, reducing the capability of terrorist groups, erecting physical defences against terrorist attacks, and mitigating the effects of attacks. This paper emphasizes that reducing terrorist capabilities in turn requires the use of several instruments – each with its own strengths and limitations – including diplomacy, intelligence, financial controls, criminal justice systems and military force. It concludes by stressing that counterterrorism unavoidably raises difficult and often controversial policy issues, including conflicts with other values such as personal liberty and privacy.