Counterterrorism / Understanding Terrorism (ePub)

Terrorism has emerged as one of the most problematic issues facing
national governments and the international community in the 21st
century. But how is it possible to counter terrorism in a world in
which governance is still dominated by the nation-state? Are we
seeing new forms of terrorist activity in the wake of 9/11? Are
pre-9/11 approaches still valid? How can we combat and control
diverse threats of multiple origin? Who should be responsible for
countering terrorism and in what circumstances?

In this incisive new book, Ronald Crelinsten seeks to provide
answers to these pressing questions, challenging readers to think
beyond disciplinary and jurisdictional boundaries. He presents an
up-to-date and comprehensive introduction to the difficulties and
obstacles related to countering terrorism in democratic societies.
The counterterrorism framework that he develops in this book
reflects the complex world in which we live. The different
approaches to counterterrorism provide the organizing theme of the
book and help the reader to understand and to appreciate the full
range of options available. The book:

* * includes a host of contemporary examples and further
readings;

* compares and contrasts pre- and post-9/11 approaches;

* critically evaluates the post-9/11 'war on terror';

* moves beyond a purely state-centric focus to include non-state
actors and institutions;

* combines hard and soft power approaches;

* considers prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.

Counterterrorism will be an indispensible guide for
students, researchers, practitioners and general readers wanting to
broaden their knowledge of the possibilities and limitations of
counterterrorism today.