Prevention vs. retaliation: Empowering counter-terrorism efforts by targeting the crime-terror nexus
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
11-7-2008
Abstract
Difficulties in devising an international definition for terrorism impede the ability of the international community in developing coherent counter-terrorism policies that legitimately impact terrorist operations. The policy dilemma is compounded by the fact that definitions and categories of non-state terrorists largely exclude transnational criminal organizations. These groups have become a major source of financial and resource support for terrorist groups since the conclusion of the Cold War and subsequent decline in state-sponsorship of terrorism. Policy and operational emphasis needs to expand in order to make a greater impact on the factors that facilitate terrorist operations and stop the cycle of reaction through security, protectionist and retaliatory measures. By expanding existing views on terrorism to include and recognize the significance of criminal-terrorists, the international community may be able to create stronger, more liberal policies in counter-terrorism. The potential benefits include reducing the means available to violent non-state actors, thus impacting their planning, preparation and conduct of illicit, illegal and violent operations; stripping resources impacts both criminals and terrorists. This paper will discuss the present global environment related to the crime-terror nexus; examine the labels, definitions and theories associated with non-state terrorism and how these aspects may be enhanced by including transnational crime as a component to terrorism; and lastly, it will examine the policy implications of choosing to place greater emphasis on the crime-terror nexus as a key target in counter-terrorism efforts. In addressing these issues, this paper is intended to illustrate how a refinement of present definitions may re-define counter-terrorism policy. If counter-terrorism efforts are focused at the key juncture of transnational organized crime and traditional terrorist activities, it may provide a stronger platform for security and cooperation among states in preventing acts of terror.
Recommended Citation
Gray, David H. and Munyon, Krista, "Prevention vs. retaliation: Empowering counter-terrorism efforts by targeting the crime-terror nexus" (2008). College of Humanities and Social Sciences. 182.
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/college_humanities_social_sciences/182