NCJ Number
156370
Journal
Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice Volume: 11 Issue: 1 Dated: (February 1995) Pages: 1-12
Date Published
1995
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article examines how recent historical events in Europe are reshaping some aspects of international terrorism while leaving others intact, with emphasis on the impacts of the reunification of Germany, the dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and the ethnic wars of the Balkan countries.
Abstract
Study information came from news media coverage and government documents. The analysis indicates that terrorism is likely to increase in Europe and that neither the European community, governments, nor foreign-based interests operating in Europe will be prepared for this onslaught. Various countries have announced a hard stance against terrorists, passed law, applied pressure to supporting countries, attempted economic sanctions, conducted covert operations, and used military intervention with only limited success. Europe's history suggests that the realignment of international borders, the restructuring of governmental systems, and the restaffing of existing systems are a seemingly continuous series of processes. Although the techniques and technology of terrorism may change with time, the political causes and social effects and governmental responses remain relatively consistent. The most effective solution is probably one that governments and law enforcement agencies have disregarded: education of the public about who and what terrorists are, what their goals are, and what they do to accomplish these goals. Only the public's refusal to be terrorized can stop terrorism. Notes and 17 references