Counterterrorism Efforts Research Articles

Beyond security failures: The complexities of addressing Boko haram in Nigeria

The fight against Boko Haram in Nigeria highlights the complexities of addressing a multifaceted insurgency that thrives on political, social, and economic dysfunction. This article examines the critical failures in Nigeria’s security and justice systems, which have allowed Boko Haram to flourish despite military interventions. It explores the limitations of a purely military response and underscores the importance of addressing the broader socio-political issues that contribute to terrorism. The article evaluates how government corruption, poor governance, and the lack of accountability within the security apparatus have weakened Nigeria's capacity to combat Boko Haram effectively. Moreover, it considers the role of international stakeholders, including the United States, in supporting Nigeria's counterterrorism efforts, while emphasizing that foreign assistance must align with domestic reforms to be effective. The application of complexity theory is proposed as a framework to understand the interconnected factors contributing to the persistence of Boko Haram. This approach underscores that addressing Boko Haram requires more than just military solutions; it demands addressing economic stagnation, political corruption, and social grievances that fuel the insurgency. The article concludes by recommending a holistic strategy that combines security sector reform, governance improvements, and international cooperation as the path forward for Nigeria.

Decriminalising terror: for a zemiology of counterterrorism

Over the past two decades, UK counterterrorism efforts have involved contentious legal and social measures aimed at preventing harm and increasing security. Critical scholars argue that these measures narrowly define security, risk, and harm, failing to recognise intervention itself as a potential threat to individuals and communities. Despite significant critical research, the legitimacy of the criminal justice model of counterterrorism persists in criminological scholarship. This article uses zemiology, the study of social harm, to critique contemporary counterterrorism’s impact. It employs UK counterterrorism as its case study, highlighting its ‘security first’ approach and its narrow definition of public interest. Three key arguments are advanced: first, counterterrorism is not an exceptional extension of criminal law but a form of hybrid governance; second, viewing this governance through a crime-centric lens obscures the harms of criminalisation and overlooks non-criminalised politically-motivated violence; third, examining counterterrorism through a social harm lens allows for a focus on social and racial structures, rather than state-defined categories of harm. The social harm perspective challenges the conceptualisation of terrorism as a crisis justifying exceptional measures, highlighting instead counterterrorism’s broader social impact. The zemiological approach highlights the role of law, not just as source of protection, but also as a means of repression and state violence, emphasising state accountability and providing a framework for identifying and preventing social harm. This perspective centres the broader implications of counterterrorism policies on social structures and racial dynamics, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of security and harm.

The Terrorist Networks and Their Posing Threats: The Case of the Horn of Africa

This study examines the evolution and impact of terrorist networks in the Horn of Africa, primarily focusing on Somalia and the surrounding region. Following the 9/11 attacks, the Horn of Africa emerged as a critical front in global counter-terrorism efforts due to the presence of groups like al-Shabaab and ISIS. This paper explores these groups’ organizational structures, strategies, and operations, highlighting their adaptability, resilience, and the sociopolitical dynamics that have enabled them to thrive. It delves into the persistent challenges faced by Somalia, including political fragmentation, economic deprivation, and the complex interplay of local and international actors, such as the United States and Türkiye. The study emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to counter-terrorism that integrates military, political, and diplomatic strategies, addressing the immediate security threats and the underlying causes of extremism. By analyzing current counter-terrorism efforts and their limitations, this paper offers strategic recommendations to achieve long-term stability in the region.

Terrorism in Pakistan Impact on National Security

Terrorism presents a substantial obstacle in the current global political landscape, leading to changes in approaches to national security. The 9/11 attacks had a significant and far-reaching effect, on South Asia, notably in Pakistan, prompting leaders such as President George W. Bush to intensify worldwide counter-terrorism efforts. This research examines the relationship between terrorism and national security, focusing on Pakistan's experience with cross-border terrorism from Afghanistan, particularly in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The study argues that terrorism surpasses conventional conflict standards and poses existential risks to national security. The study also highlights the impact of terrorist spillover from Afghanistan on Pakistan's territorial integrity, political sovereignty, and core institutions. The study also highlights the degradation of civil freedoms, economic pressures, and social divides due to terrorism. The research advocates for strong counter-terrorism strategies and global collaboration to strengthen national security and maintain global peace. The research advocates for a comprehensive strategy to address terrorism, emphasizing self-sufficiency and global cooperation, aiming to successfully battle terrorism while preserving national autonomy and democratic government in international affairs.

Analyzing the U.S. Drone Program’s Deployment of Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for Targeted Killings Outside of National Boundaries

Following the 9/11 attacks, U.S. counterterrorism efforts have gradually shifted focus from Afghanistan to regions like Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia. The deployment of armed drones in these areas to target al-Qaeda members and their affiliates has sparked a contentious international law debate. While the U.S. drone policy claims adherence to international targeting rules, the reality of operations in remote locations has led to numerous civilian casualties. With a rising toll of civilian deaths, challenges in distinguishing between combatants and non-combatants, and concerns about accountability in drone operations, it seems that the approach taken by U.S. policymakers may have misconstrued existing laws governing hostilities. The policy lacks clarity on the applicable legal framework and necessary constraints to prevent potential misuse of drone technology, fostering a perception that the U.S. administration consistently employs armed drones without transparency or accountability. Despite extensive literature on the 9/11 attacks and scholarly discussions on U.S. drone use, the alignment between rules governing targeting under international humanitarian law and the practical implementation of drone operations by the U.S. remains an area with limited examination in international law. Consequently, given issues related to civilian casualties, collateral damage, and potential violations of humanitarian law principles, it becomes crucial to evaluate whether U.S. targeting practices violate the law of armed conflict.

Az Europol terrorizmus elleni küzdelemben nyújtott szerepe: több mint 25 éves partnerség

Aim: Provide an overview of the evolution of Europol’s counter-terrorism capabilities over the last 25 years. Focus on the establishment of the European Counter-Terrorism Centre (ECTC). Methodology: In this article on counterterrorism, the methodology employed involves a qualitative approach, leveraging first-hand experiences and insights from Europol’s operational involvement and institutional development. Findings: Over the past two decades, significant terrorist attacks have profoundly influenced the European Union’s counter-terrorism policies and institutions. These events have accelerated the development of Europol’s dedicated counterterrorism capabilities, transforming it from an agency with limited operational capacity into a key player in the EU’s counter-terrorism efforts. Europol’s role expanded significantly after 2015 leading to the establishment of the European Counter-Terrorism Centre (ECTC). The ECTC supports national counter-terrorism efforts through enhanced law enforcement cooperation and operational services, addressing emerging threats like jihadist use of the internet for recruitment and propaganda, through the European Union Internet Referral Unit (EU IRU). Despite progress achieved, counterterrorism remains primarily a national competence, with Europol playing a supportive role. The continuous evolution of Europol’s strategic and operational tools reflects the EU’s commitment to a collective approach, balancing national prerogatives with the need for coordinated, transnational efforts to combat terrorism effectively. Value: The value of this article lies in its practical insights offering an internal perspective from a seasoned security practitioner focusing on operational and institutional realities as opposed to theoretical frameworks.

Europol’s Counter-Terrorism Role: over 25 Years of Partnership

Aim: Provide an overview of the evolution of Europol’s counter-terrorism capabilities over the last 25 years. Focus on the establishment of the European Counter Terrorism Centre (ECTC). Methodology: In this article on counter-terrorism, the methodology employed involves a qualitative approach, leveraging first-hand experiences and insights from Europol’s operational involvement and institutional development. Findings: Over the past two decades, significant terrorist attacks have profoundly influenced the European Union’s counter-terrorism policies and institutions. These events have accelerated the development of Europol’s dedicated counter-terrorism capabilities, transforming it from an agency with limited operational capacity into a key player in the EU’s counter-terrorism efforts. Europol’s role expanded significantly after 2015 leading to the establishment of the European Counter Terrorism Centre (ECTC). The ECTC supports national counter-terrorism efforts through enhanced law enforcement cooperation and operational services, addressing emerging threats like jihadist use of the internet for recruitment and propaganda, through the European Union Internet Referral Unit (EU IRU). Despite progress achieved, counter-terrorism remains primarily a national competence, with Europol playing a supportive role. The continuous evolution of Europol’s strategic and operational tools reflects the EU’s commitment to a collective approach, balancing national prerogatives with the need for coordinated, transnational efforts to combat terrorism effectively. Value: The value of this article lies in its practical insights offering an internal perspective from a seasoned security practitioner focusing on operational and institutional realities as opposed to theoretical frameworks.

Regional Dynamics and Counterterrorism: Pakistan-Russia Collaboration in Central Asia

Pakistan and Russia face threats from terrorist organizations such as the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), the Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), the East Turkestan Liberation Organization (ETLO), and the Grey Wolves, which have extended their influence into Central Asia. These groups pose serious security challenges for Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, with Pakistani intelligence often tracing terrorist incidents back to these organizations. This study explores the geostrategic dynamics and security challenges in Central Asia and the potential for a strategic partnership between Pakistan and Russia. To investigate the potential and implications of a strategic partnership between Pakistan and Russia for regional security and stability. The research involves a comprehensive literature review and analysis of efforts by the Counter Terrorism Implementation Task Forces (CTITF) under the United Nations and the United Nations Center for Regional Preventive Diplomacy for Central Asia (UNCRPDCA). It examines their impacts on Russia-Pakistan relations within the context of regional dynamics and strategic interests. The study finds that a Pak-Russia strategic partnership could enhance regional security and stability through improved counterterrorism efforts, including intelligence sharing and joint military exercises. It highlights the mutual challenges and geopolitical tensions that may affect this partnership. The paper provides valuable insights into the potential strategic partnership between Pakistan and Russia to address shared security threats and the role of international organizations in facilitating counterterrorism initiatives in the region.

Poor, brainwashed and immature: prevalent gender stereotypes in Indonesian preventing violent extremism (PVE) and counterterrorism (CT) efforts

ABSTRACT The root causes, nature and impact of Indonesian women’s involvement in terrorism has yet to influence Indonesian Counter Terrorism (CT) and Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) policies. Through a feminist discourse analysis of semi-structured interviews with 28 Indonesian government representatives, this article argues that Indonesian CT and PVE policies continue to rely on gender stereotypes rather than addressing the gendered realities of Indonesian women’s relationship with violent extremism. This reflects broader global discourses regarding women and terrorism but are shaped by unique religious, cultural, political and historical influences within the Indonesian context – the Indonesian gender order. This article finds that the stereotypes – depicting female extremists as immature, brainwashed and poor – lead to a generalised applicability of the one-size-fits-all approach of income generation, overlooking female extremists’ culpability, focusing on protection of “women and children”, neglecting the roles diverse actors in CT and PVE efforts, and reinforcing the Indonesian gender order.

Need of Encryption Legislation: Protecting India’s Digital Realm and Beyond

Encryption is essential for protecting sensitive data, individual privacy and national security in a time of digital transition and growing cybersecurity threats. This article begins by highlighting the need for encryption laws in India, emphasising the growing reliance on digital technologies across sectors and the critical necessity of protecting digital assets. It proceeds to dissect the existing legal frameworks governing encryption and the enforcement challenges faced by regulatory agencies. A critical aspect of the research involves examining international perspectives on encryption legislations, drawing lessons from global approaches and discerning their relevance to India’s policy landscape. This article underscores the delicate balance between privacy and security concerns, particularly in the context of counterterrorism efforts. In addition, this research unravels case studies and incidents involving notable cybersecurity breaches in India, shedding light on the legal implications and consequences that follow such breaches. The study culminates with an exploration of the public opinion and stakeholders’ perspectives on encryption legislations, considering industry views and civil liberties concerns. It offers insights into the best practices for drafting effective encryption laws and provides recommendations to strengthen India’s digital resilience. It calls for proactive measures to secure India’s digital future while preserving individual freedoms and privacy rights.

Terrorist Attacks in Indonesia : Does Terrorism Work?

This article aims to conduct an analytical examination of the terrorist attacks in Indonesia to assess the success of terrorism. The analysis uses a framework to evaluate the success and inherent advantages from a tactical, organizational, and strategic perspective. Notable cases analyzed include the Bali Bombings in 2002 and 2005; the Australia Embassy Bombing in 2004; the Jakarta Marriot and Ritz-Carlton Bombings in 2009; and the Jakarta assaults in 2016. These instances were selected based on their substantial influence on Indonesian culture and their portrayal of various terrorist strategies and goals. The implication indicates that although certain tactical objectives may be accomplished, there are typically restrictions on achieving strategic and organizational aims. This study explains tactical successes implied by immediate casualties and economic disruption. The study gives some recommendations to enhance intelligence efforts in counterterrorism, cooperation and collaboration with international efforts, and improving the deradicalization program. This insight can be used by policymakers and law enforcers who work with counter-terrorism efforts to make the efforts in Indonesia more effective.

Humanitarian exemptions: illusive progress in safeguarding humanitarian assistance in the international counterterrorism architecture

Abstract Global counterterrorism efforts have had a number of detrimental effects on the work of humanitarian actors in conflict zones. To mitigate these adverse effects and the underlying normative conflict between counterterrorism frameworks and international humanitarian law (IHL), scholars and humanitarian practitioners have been advocating for the introduction of humanitarian exemptions. These are clauses that exempt humanitarian assistance and related conduct from counterterrorism frameworks in order to ensure an unimpeded provision of humanitarian assistance in areas in which entities designated as ‘terrorists’ are active. This article argues that the progress promised by the emergence of these exemptions remains at least partially illusive. The exemptions remain shaped by a security-oriented perspective on humanitarian assistance and are preoccupied with actors. As a result, they are beneficial primarily to the largest and most prominent humanitarian actors established in the Global North while neglecting small and local humanitarian actors in conflict areas. As such, they defy IHL’s deliberate openness regarding the actors providing humanitarian assistance. Moreover, they violate the obligations of non-belligerent states under IHL to allow and facilitate the free passage of relief consignments which equally protects transnational financial support to local humanitarian actors and applies irrespective of the source of that support. We conclude that humanitarian exemptions are detrimental to efforts to ‘localize’ and decolonize the humanitarian sector. Therefore, instead of focusing on humanitarian exemptions as a ‘micro-solution’, advocacy should pursue a more comprehensive critical approach towards the global counterterrorism architecture.

The Tightrope of Individual Liberties amid Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Agenda

This doctrinal research article explores the nuances, pitfalls, and opportunities within this intricate landscape. This doctrinal research delves into the intricate balance between individual liberties and Pakistan's counter-terrorism agenda, navigating the complex terrain where security imperatives intersect with fundamental rights. As Pakistan grapples with persistent security threats from terrorism, its response has often entailed the implementation of stringent measures aimed at thwarting terrorist activities and ensuring public safety. However, these measures have raised concerns about their impact on civil liberties, including freedoms of expression, association, and privacy. Drawing upon legal frameworks, policy documents, and judicial precedents, this research critically examines the evolving landscape of counter-terrorism laws and practices in Pakistan and their implications for individual liberties. It scrutinizes the compatibility of counter-terrorism measures with constitutional guarantees and international human rights standards, assessing the extent to which security imperatives have encroached upon fundamental rights and freedoms. Furthermore, this research explores the role of judicial oversight, executive discretion, and legislative reforms in reconciling the tension between security concerns and individual liberties within Pakistan's legal framework. It analyses landmark court decisions, legislative enactments, and government policies to elucidate the legal and institutional mechanisms aimed at safeguarding individual liberties while countering terrorism effectively. Moreover, this research situates Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts within the broader context of regional security dynamics, highlighting the interconnectedness of domestic security challenges with regional conflicts, geopolitical rivalries, and transnational terrorist networks. It underscores the importance of regional cooperation, information sharing, and diplomatic engagement in addressing common security threats while respecting individual liberties across borders. By critically examining the tightrope walk between individual liberties and Pakistan's counter-terrorism agenda, this research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the challenges and trade-offs inherent in balancing security imperatives with respect for fundamental rights.

Islamic Radicalisation in Bangladesh: An Analysis of Political Islamism in Bangladesh

Islamism in the modern world is clearly portrayed as a notion of religious extremism. Bangladesh on the other hand as a young developing nation finds its root into two different branches of ideology: Bengali cultural and Muslim ideology. The militant groups in Bangladesh have been found active recently specially after 2015 when international media spotted Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and the Islamic State’s (IS) presence in the country. This study, however, aims at understanding the Islamic radicalisation in Bangladesh through the analysis of Islamist political and non-political groups’ functions and propaganda. In this article the ideas of Islamic radicalisation, mutations and role and function of Islamist militant as well as political group have been discussed. The role of Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing in the radicalisation have been discussed. The disputed relationship of Jamaat and the radical extremists as well as ban on their politics have created a complex scenario in Bangladesh. The political polarisation and politicising of counter terrorism effort have weakened the government’s effort to tackle radical organisation. Honest and tolerant political intervention by welcoming different views regarding the solution of the radicalisation problem can help address it effectively.

Combating Terrorism in Kenya

The adoption of a multi-agency approach in combating terrorism in Kenya has been praised as transformative. Despite this positive assessment, the motivation behind this adoption by security actors remain unclear. This article employs a descriptive cross-sectional research design to explore the determinants that led to the implementation of the multi-agency strategy in the fight against terrorism. Data were collected through questionnaires and interview guides, from a sample of 306 participants drawn from Kenya’s disciplined forces who are tasked with the national security. The findings reveal that the decision to adopt a multi-agency approach was significantly influenced by the need to leverage the unique capabilities of each security agency, the documented successes of similar approaches globally, and the necessity to synchronize operations among Kenya’s diverse security agencies. The research study concludes that the relative strengths of each security agency and the imperative for operational synergy were key factors driving the adoption of the multi- agency approach in Kenya's counter-terrorism efforts.

Iraq's Counterterrorism Laws Under Scrutiny Unjustified Asset Freezes

In response to the terrorist threat posed by ISIS, Iraq implemented legal frameworks aimed at disrupting terrorist financing, including the establishment of a committee to freeze terrorist assets as per international and national laws. This study assesses the effectiveness of these measures through qualitative analysis of legal documents and judicial reviews by the Federal Supreme Court, which found many asset freezes to be unjustified. The findings indicate a need for procedural refinement to ensure fair and effective enforcement, highlighting the challenges of balancing legal integrity with counterterrorism efforts in Iraq. Highlights: Effectiveness: Examines the effectiveness of Iraq's asset freezing against terrorism, identifying practical issues. Judicial Oversight: Highlights the Federal Supreme Court's role in overturning unjustified asset freezes. Legal Refinement: Emphasizes the need to refine procedures to ensure fairness and compliance with international standards. Keywords: Terrorism Financing, Legal Frameworks, Asset Freezing, Judicial Review, Counterterrorism

India Counterterrorism: India and Pakistan's Lack of Cooperation in Fighting Lashar e-Taiba after Mumbai Attacks 2008

Following the 2008 Mumbai Attacks, India refrained from engaging in counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan, the origin country of Lashkar e-Taiba (LeT), marking a significant departure from previous approaches. This study investigates the factors influencing India's decision through the lens of the Prisoner's Dilemma Theory. By examining India's strategic calculations and contextualizing them within the security dilemma framework post-Mumbai terror, this research aims to elucidate the rationale behind India's non-cooperative stance. Results reveal a complex interplay of historical distrust, perceived security threats, and strategic considerations shaping India's decision-making, highlighting the implications for future counter-terrorism efforts and international relations strategies.

The survey of through-wall radar system

In contemporary times, optical cameras have garnered extensive usage, particularly in the realm of surveillance applications. Nevertheless, optical cameras possess certain limitations that hinder their ability to capture images efficiently in certain scenarios. For instance, they struggle to produce clear photographs in environments characterized by excessive brightness, darkness, or the use of flash. Additionally, the acquisition of high-definition portraits using optical cameras may raise ethical questions regarding potential violations of personal privacy. The detection of occluded objects by optical cameras poses a significant difficulty in the context of security applications. The topic of through-wall radar has gained significant interest due to its notable camouflage, as well as its advantageous features such as through-wall detection and resilience to optical causes. Researchers have successfully devised and developed several efficient through-wall radar systems that have shown to be helpful in several domains such as search and rescue operations, counter-terrorism efforts, medical applications, and urban warfare scenarios. This study provides an overview of prevalent through-wall radar technologies, conducts comparative evaluations, and explores the potential advancements and issues associated with this technology.

Investigating capital flight in South Asian countries: The dual influence of terrorism and corruption.

This specific research initiative aims to intricately examine the intricate dynamics connecting terrorism, corruption, and capital flight within the context of South Asian economies, encompassing countries including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The principal objectives of this study entail a comprehensive investigation into the synergistic impacts of terrorism and corruption on the prevalence of capital flight. To realize these objectives, the study employs longitudinal data from 1990 to 2019, adopting the portfolio choice framework as its theoretical underpinning. In terms of methodology, the empirical inquiry uses the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) estimation technique. The empirical findings derived from this analysis distinctly establish a statistically noteworthy and positive correlation between terrorism, corruption, and the occurrence of capital flight across multiple South Asian nations. In light of these discerning outcomes, it is strongly recommended that the governments of South Asian countries prioritize and actively pursue the fortification of their institutional governance mechanisms. This strategic approach is deemed crucial in efficaciously counteracting the escalation of capital flight. Specifically, a targeted focus on augmenting institutional governance practices, fostering transparency, fortifying anti-corruption measures, and intensifying counterterrorism efforts could collectively contribute to reducing capital flight tendencies. By undertaking these recommendations, South Asian governments can foster an environment of enhanced economic stability, attractiveness for investment, and sustainable growth, thereby deterring the adverse impact of capital flight while concurrently combatting the underlying challenges posed by terrorism and corruption.

Global Fragmentation and Collective Security Instruments: Weakening the Liberal International Order From Within

Collective instruments, such as UN peacekeeping or mediation, are a lens through which we can examine broader normative fault lines in the international order. They hold both practical and symbolic value. In the post-Cold War moment, these instruments started reflecting liberal values. They became concerned with balancing the rights of individuals and state sovereignty. These advances around “human protection” are now in question, with contestation perceived as emerging from non-Western powers. I contribute to the debates on the “pragmatic turn” within collective responses but contend that while the focus in current debates about the normative shift has become global fragmentation, the momentum for the de-prioritization of human protection within collective instruments comes from within the liberal order itself. Human protection is now a broadly shared and firmly entrenched norm, but to shield the norm from abuse, the collective international community progressively restricted any use of force to advance the norm within the instrument of UN peacekeeping. The co-optation of UN peacekeeping into counter-terrorism efforts and the introduction of stabilization mandates undermined the principled nature and moral authority of the instrument of peacekeeping itself. This, in turn, compromised the implementation of human protection. This development is now accelerated and exposed due to global fragmentation, influencing not just peacekeeping but also other adjacent activities, such as mediation.