Terrorism and Political Violence - A Permanent Challenge to Goverments (From Terrorism, Legitimacy, and Power, P 52-64, 1983, Martha Crenshaw, ed. - See NCJ-91507)

• NCJ Number: 91509
• Author(s): A C E Quainton
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 13 pages
• Sale Source: Wesleyan University
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

A credible long-term response to terrorism must have the dimensions of law enforcement, social and economic reform, moral suasion, a deterrent policy, and media restraint.

Abstract

If terrorism is to be countered, law enforcement must respond with sophisticated intelligence and investigative work. Further, the judicial system must act objectively and in accord with laws that proscribe the violent activities of terrorists, regardless of the cause of ideology espoused by the terrorists. The law enforcement response to terrorism, however, is only a short-term and relatively superficial response to terrorism. Where legitimate political, social, or economic grievances exist in a society, every effort should be made to implement policy and reform that will eradicate the causes of those grievances. Only under conditions of relative prosperity and positive social conditions can a society expect to see a decrease in violence. A clearly defined and vigorously reinforced commitment to international law against violent tactics can help build a moral climate that deplores violence. Further, terrorists must be made to realize that few benefits are to be gained from their violent acts. As long as terrorists can count on substantive concessions through intimidation and violence, a press willing to sensationalize terrorist acts, and safe passage to a country of refuge, terrorist tactics will continue to be attractive. Policies nationally and internationally must aim at diminishing the benefits of terrorism.