Acts Considered as Terrorism Crimes and Compatibility of Counter-terrorist Measures to International Standards: In Context of Ethiopia

Abstract

Existence of accurate legal definition of terrorism is important for society and for governance to enable successful investigation and prosecution of terrorists within the established judicial system. Without international agreement on a definition of terrorism, it has not been possible to adopt a treaty covering all its forms. In other words, without a clear and precise definition of terrorism, it becomes impossible and impractical to talk about concepts and counter-terrorism measures in one country. Moreover, without a definition for terrorism, how can we define and investigate the correctness of those who practice it are? Further, even though terrorism is a danger to the peace, security and development of the country and a serious threat to the peace and security of the world at large and view of these challenges, the Government of Ethiopia has been exerting the necessary effort to prevent and combat terrorism through enacting and effectively implementing domestic laws, it must in conformity with the human rights law, and international humanitarian law. Thus, the basic objective of this Article was to critically observe and examine definition of terrorism, acts that constitute terrorism and other acts which can be considered as contributory to terrorism crimes under Ethiopian relevant laws adopted to combat terrorism; specially Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism Crimes Proclamation No.1176/2020. Under this article author also critically made analyses on the manner how current Ethiopian government adopted the new counter terrorism law and consideration given to it. Keywords: Definition of Terrorism, Counter Terrorism Movement, Terrorist Acts, Terrorism Crimes, Sub-Ordinate Crimes, Human Rights Approach