This paper addresses the domestic measures and policies that have been taken to ensure the continued safety of American citizens against terrorist organizations.
2,150 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 7 sources, 2002, $ 80.95
Abstract This paper addresses the domestic measures and policies that have been taken to ensure the continued safety of American citizens against terrorist organizations. Overt aggression such as the war in Afghanistan shall not be a focus of this paper, for while such actions can indeed be termed as a counter to terrorism, they are not designed to directly counterterrorism but rather to remove the threat entirely in addition to acting as retribution. A focus shall be on the efficiency of the INS and on airline safety, for these two areas are believed to have been the greatest contributing factors to the events that occurred on September 11th. APA style.
Tags: POLITICAL SCIENCE / TERRORISM, counteringterrorismairports
Abstract The paper discusses the issue of terrorism as being the most stringent aspect of international politics, since the events of 2001 proved that terrorism is by no means a conventional threat and a conventional war cannot be waged against it. The paper states that it is important that a comprehensive approach on the matter be taken into consideration. The paper further discusses that the United States has been promoting a complex counterterrorism policy which includes the combination of various aspects of foreign policy. The paper focuses on the fact that pursuing a military unconventional warfare strategy in a diplomatic environment will only work, if there is synergy within the United States Government.
From the Paper "One of the first aspects to be taken into account is the issue of the global nature of the terrorist threat. In this sense, the United States has been widely considered a worldwide approach on the matter. This method of dealing with terrorism is obvious in the 2006 National Strategy for Combating Terrorism. More precisely, the document drew the guidelines for the activities of the US Government in its attempt to address the issue of terrorism. In this sense, among other aspects, the policy considers that action must be taken in order to "advance effective democracies as the long-term antidote to the ideology of terrorism; prevent attacks by terrorist networks; deny terrorists the support and sanctuary of rogue states; deny terrorists control of any nation they would use as a base and launching pad for terror; and lay the foundations and build the institutions and structures we need to carry the fight forward against terror and help ensure our ultimate success" . All these measures are taken in relation to two distinctive paths of action which in order to be effective, must be interlinked and combined. These two directions are the military and the diplomatic one."
This paper examines the Counter-terrorism Office of the United States Government - an office which goes by the title, Office of the Coordinator for Counter-Terrorism.
Abstract This paper looks at the directives which guide the actions of the Office of the Coordinator for Counter-Terrorism, as well as its strategies and tactics, its various functions and programs and how the office is organized. The paper highlights how much changed in America after 9/11, especially for a government branch devoted to intelligence-gathering and to security. The paper discusses how the Counter-terrorism Office has grown, with its associations with other government agencies, increasingly complex and involved.
From the Paper "Whatever the criticisms leveled against the Bush Administration's "War on Terror" by its critics, few can dispute that the United States must pursue a forceful policy against terrorist activities if it is to secure its safety at home and abroad. Certainly, recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the attention granted to anti-terror measures and institutions in light of the fact that 9/11 proved, once and for all, that America too is vulnerable to terror assaults. In addition to the heightened interest surrounding the anti-terror tools America had in place prior to 9/11, the last five-and-a-half years has borne witness to the creation of new institutions geared expressly to fighting terrorism - the National Counter-Terrorism Center chief among them."
This paper examines the article "The Lessons of International Cooperation in Counter-terrorism: Address to RUSI Conference in Transnational Terrorism, A Global Approach" by Anthony Cordesman.
Abstract The paper reviews "The Lessons of International Cooperation in Counter-terrorism: Address to RUSI Conference in Transnational Terrorism, A Global Approach" by Anthony Cordesman that discusses the need for international cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts. The paper looks at how Cordesman focuses on instances of cooperation and the lack of it in the past. The paper then points out that although Cordesman's work is logical, it is still merely the opinion of one expert on this subject.
From the Paper "Cordesman's article clearly addresses experts in the field of counterterrorism, through a developed set of points regarding historical lessons that have been learned with regard to the need for international cooperation in counterterrorism efforts and future suggestions about such communications. The author first points out discrepancies in the definition of terrorism that are dependant upon the intent or view of the individual or organization, then moves on to discuss seven points about international communication on counter terrorism."
A study of the development of international terrorism and counterterrorism, both in general and specifically, since the events of September 11th, 2001.
Abstract This paper focuses on the way counterterrorism and terrorism have changed since 9/11 and the growing role of the U.S. It also looks at the development of 'modern' terrorism and the possible consequences of the continuing War on Terror. It debates whetherr or not September 11th, 2001 can be seen as a day that changed the face of terrorism. It also discusses how since the invasion of Afghanistan, terrorist attacks have become more numerous and high profile although their basic purpose remains the same, to gain attention. It puts forward the view that what has changed about terrorism since 9/11 is the amount of media attention it now controls.
From the Paper "As well as presenting a recent point of reference for terrorist activity, the conflicts in Palestine and Northern Ireland also show two different ways of dealing with the problem, certain aspects of which have been adopted by the United States. In the case of Britain and Northern Ireland, the conflict is one of territory and security for those who want British rule. In Palestine and Israel however, the situation is based purely on territory. This difference in the foundation for the terrorist action seems to have dictated the way in which terrorism has been dealt with. Because of the presence of British citizens in Northern Ireland, and the small section of society that is involved in the unrest , it has been British policy in recent years to try and settle the situation through political sanctions and increased security measures to prevent terrorism."
Abstract This paper discusses possible strategies to counter the threat posed to the United States, by Osama Bin Laden. It describes the danger that Bin Laden poses in relation to his influence and his organization, Al Qaeda, and discusses previously used strategies and their success. It then goes on to discuss the option of using counter-terrorism to combat terrorist activities and reduce the risk of terrorism that Bin Laden poses.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Osama Bin Laden
From the Paper "Osama Bin Laden is the head of one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations; namely The Al Qa'ida organization. This organization is difficult to fight in conventional terms as it is characterized by its networking style of operation which makes the organization difficult to track and combat. (Al-Qaeda. Wikipedia.) Another factor which makes conventional military actions difficult is that the organization is also obscure in terms of its membership and leadership hierarchy. While Osama Bin Laden is the ostensible leader and symbolic head of the organization, the actual leadership structure is largely unknown. This leads to the realization that combating and countering Osama Bin Laden cannot be adequately achieved through formal military strategy."
Abstract The paper examines the article "Winning the "War on Terrorism"; The Need for a Fundamentally Different Strategy" that is a detailed analysis of the counterproductive nature of the current state of international counter-terrorism. The paper explains Cordesman's assertion that the struggle against terrorism is not military or secular, but is a war that must be fought from within Islam at an ideological level. The paper notes that this work is limited since it presents logical findings of just one expert on the subject.
From the Paper "Cordesman's article is a detailed analysis of the counterproductive nature of the current state of international counterterrorism. The work stresses that the current aggressive actions of the West coupled with the inaction of the Middle East create a counterproductive strategy that intensifies terrorism, rather than reducing it. The first point made by Cordesman is that the West identifies terrorism as a global situation, while in reality there are several smaller regional situations, that have little international effect and that any kind of terrorism that can be correctly labeled as global, in its effect is that that is spurned on by Islamist extremism, which he even more specifically identifies as neo-Salafi Sunni Islamist extremism."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses a plan designed to meet the needs of operatives charged with the difficult task of countering the terrorist threats posed by Al Qaeda. As is well known, since the devastatingly deadly attack on the people of the USA, which has come to be known as 9/11, counterterrorism has become of paramount importance. The writer notes that an important step in counteringterrorism is to attempt to understand the motivations of terrorists. The writer points out that by studying the Al Qaeda manual that is available on the Internet, one can enhance one's understanding, so that terrorists may be better understood and can be fought more effectively.
Outline:
Introduction
The Nature of Terrorism in the Modern World
Combating Terrorism in the Modern, Globalized World
What we can Learn from the Al Qaeda Manual
From the Paper "Thus, we can reasonably expect that the USA will continue to be attacked by terrorists for the foreseeable future. The challenge then is to find the best way to counter it. To do this, we must bear in mind what experts such as Wilen have pointed out: that we cannot beat terrorism by operating only in a reactive mode, as has largely been the case up till now. Rather, we need to operate in a preventative manner. For example, we need to integrate information in order to know about terrorism attacks before they happen, and then take steps to prevent them. This will be a much lesser drain on our resources than cleaning up the mess afterwards. Consider, for example, how much better it would be to prevent a nuclear attack on New York, than to attempt to repair the damage afterwards, especially given the fact that land affected by nuclear fallout cannot be inhabited for 70 years."
Abstract This paper asserts that homegrown or domestic terrorism is the greatest challenge for American counter-terrorism policy. The paper argues that there needs to be a greater focus on homegrown terrorism in light of the evidence of this growing threat. The paper begins by defining domestic terrorism and then goes on to explore the main reasons that this threat is growing.
Table of Contents:
The Threat Of Domestic Terrorism The History Of Homegrown Terrorism Conclusion
From the Paper "However, as we explore contemporary history we find that evidence of domestic terrorism and the aims of the homegrown groups and individuals are not diminishing. In fact instead of domestic terror decreasing in the aftermath of 9/11, there are many experts who are of the view that domestic terror groups are in fact learning from and emulating eternal groups like al-Qaeda; and are in the process of becoming an even greater threat than before. "Experts say domestic terrorism is becoming more dangerous as groups adopt looser organizational structures similar to that of the al-Qaeda network, plan larger attacks, and consider turning to weapons of mass destruction." (American Militant Extremists)"
Abstract This paper discusses several of the problems in the Middle East which are related to politics, violence, terrorism and leadership. It specifically focuses on the concept of counter-terrorism and if it can be successful in promoting peace in the Middle East. The paper concludes by discussing what the writer believes can be done in that area of the world to promote peace.
From the Paper "While making peace with the organization may be possible at a future date, I believe there is currently too much hatred by the members towards Americans for that to be possible. Also, as long as bin laden is alive and not captured he will continue to pump up anti American sentiment. Once he is captured however, and sent to prison I believe there will eventually be a chance to make peace with that organization and perhaps turn it toward positive community actions on a worldwide basis and affecting changes through non violent and legal methods."
Abstract After the September 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, the United States went on the offensive against Afghanistan, its Taliban leadership and Al Qaeda. Since then, the "war on terror" has expanded to include Iraq, despite the lack of evidence of weapons of mass destruction on their part or of a link between Al Qaeda and Saddam Hussein. The paper shows that, although as an American it is easy to see why the government would want to combat terrorism, the policies and actions taken by the United States have not been the best for reducing the threat of counter-terrorism
From the Paper "The most obvious place for improvement in the United States counterterrorism policy is in the dominant position that the United States insists on taking in such situations. Such an attitude limits the ability of government officials to understand the underlying causes of acts of terrorism against the United States. While it would not necessarily improve the state of affairs to negotiate face to face with terrorist groups, it would certainly be useful to carefully consider the background and experiences of those groups that choose to terrorize the United States."
Tags: Bush, propaganda, hostages, troops, World, Trade, Center
Abstract This paper addresses the catastrophic attacks of 9/11 and describes how the terrorist attacks on that day have since changed the efforts and viewpoint of the U.S. in reacting to terrorism. Listing the formation of counter-terrorism agencies in the U.S., the author explains, how with the combined efforts of foreign intelligence, the U.S. has devoted considerable attention to the potential risks posed by the prospect of nuclear terrorism on U.S. soil. A goal which has been explicitly repeated by Osama bin Laden. The paper assesses possible scenarios for the launch of these nuclear attacks which include long range missiles and the capability of terrorist organizations to fund these attacks. The various options for addressing the most serious threats are also discussed.
Outline:
Introduction - Statement of the Problem:
Understanding the Risk of Domestic Nuclear Terrorism:
Various Options for Addressing the Most Serious Threats
Conclusion
From the Paper "The catastrophic attacks of September 11, 2001 changed the way Americans view the prospect of international terrorism. Shortly thereafter, President George W. Bush introduced the new Department of Homeland Security designed to consolidate and coordinate the combined efforts of two dozen independent federal law enforcement, intelligence, and counter-terrorism agencies under the authority of a national security director."
Abstract This paper focuses on the airline transport and airport security anti-terrorist steps recently implemented. Three policies were introduced by President Bush - "Federal Grant Program to Strengthen Aircraft Security"; "Expanded Federal Air Marshal Program" and increased passenger security while in the airport. It looks at the advantages and disadvantages of these programs.
From the Paper "The aftermath of the World Trade Center bombing in New York City last September 11, 2001 made the US government formulate numerous precautions and measures that will prevent and eliminate the possibility of a terrorist attack to happen again. One of the preventive measures the US government has set up was to think of national policies in airline transportations and airports that will bring security and safety to the consumers and crew of the airline company. Three major steps were delivered by US President George W. Bush that will help attain the said objectives, that of the people and crew's safety and security."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the issue of the new terrorism threat. Specifically, the paper examines the strategies implemented to counter the new terrorism threat (post 9/11) and whether these strategies have been successful. It also looks at many possible long-term strategies to counter this new terrorism.
Outline:
Protections Already in Place
Protecting Internal Hubs
Target Hardening and Displacement
Chemical and Biological WMDs
Container Security
Future Strategic Theories
From the Paper "One way to do this is to enlist the aid of other Middle Eastern nations and their moderate populations. Mockaitis states, "Finally, the moderate majority in key Arab states must be persuaded to support the war or to at least stop supporting Al Qaeda. This last task will be the most difficult to achieve since it requires some significant changes in US foreign policy." So far, gaining the support of other Middle Eastern countries has not been accomplished, and those that do have good relations with the West often suffer attacks inside their borders from terrorist organizations. This is true of Saudi Arabia, who Osama bin Laden feels has turned its support to the West and so has become a nation of infidels. Many experts recommend a change in U.S. foreign policy to gain more support from Arab nations and their populations, rather than driving them away with actions such as the invasion of Iraq, which has resulted in animosity toward the U.S. by many nations around the world, including the Middle East neighbor, Iran."
Abstract This paper considers whether racial profiling in American airports against Arab Americans and others since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 has become excessive.
Tags: racism, profiling, airport security, U.S. customs, terrorism, muslims, Arab Americans
