NCJ Number
141787
Date Published
1993
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This study identifies and reviews past trends and new themes in the characteristics of terrorism and counterterrorism.
Abstract
The primary concern in counter-terrorism tactics today is the attainment of timely information or intelligence on the plans or intentions of terrorists, the extent to which the terrorists are part of an organized effort at terror, the linkage between terrorists and states, and the adoption through this linkage of the use of terrorism through terrorist proxies as a form of state policy. Other counterterrorism issues being addressed are the problems of enforcement together with the sanctioning goals of deterrence, prevention, rehabilitation, and the restoration of situations and conditions that have been harmed by terrorist acts. Ingenuity and imaginative efforts will be required to counter the terrorists involved in future terrorist acts; states must facilitate improved cooperation in the joint regulation of transnational or international terrorism; fact-finding and publicity regarding the terrorist and his acts may assist in reducing the acceptance the terrorist seeks from the community at large. The development of responsible reporting by journalists through appropriate codes of responsibility is needed; this development should be initiated by the media. Punishment of terrorists must be considered in economic terms; that is, sanctions must match the costs inflicted by the terrorist act. The most important task that lies ahead is the provision of a comprehensive program that clarifies the perspectives of those who resort to terrorism and those who must counter its deprivation of values. 28 notes