Asymmetries in Dealing With Terrorism (From Symmetry and Asymmetry of Global Adversary Behavior - Proceedings, P 39-47, 1984, Barbara G Curtis, ed. - See NCJ-97172)

• NCJ Number: 97176
• Author(s): B M Jenkins
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 9 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche as NCJ-97172.

Annotation

Terrorism worldwide has increased and become more violent; It should be countered with more effective physical protection and by basing counterterrorist policy in a view of terrorism as a mode of conflict.

Abstract

Terrorists use a limited number of tactics, but they have changed some of their approaches in recent years. Car bombs are becoming a trend, and embassy seizures have declined. Although terrorists have not achieved their goals, they persist, because they are alienated from normal society, they are oriented to action rather than goal achievement, and their members have otherwise unmarketable skills. Over the years, the composition of terrorist groups has changed, and terrorists have become more skilled in their violent methods. State-sponsored terrorism is becoming a trend likely to be an element of armed conflict in the future. It changes the contest, in that it puts more resources in the hands of the terrorists and reduces the constraints on terrorism. It also changes the measures of success and failure and offers an alternative to open armed conflict. The terrorist attack which killed 241 U.S. Marines in Beirut demonstrated our vulnerability and invites further attack. Problems in dealing with terrorism include the need for intelligence, the issue of physical security, and the question of the role of the military. With careful planning and adequate resources, it should be possible to combat the new kind of terrorism.