international terrorism | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Homeland Security

International terrorism involves globally-linked acts of violence aiming to achieve political or ideological goals, impacting multiple nations.


International terrorism is a global problem that exceeds the boundaries of nations. It involves acts of violence carried out by people or groups with varied connections worldwide, impacting multiple countries.

The Types of International Terrorism

There are different forms of international terrorism, such as bombings, hijackings, hostage-taking, and cyber attacks. These actions involve violence or threats of violence. The main goal is often to achieve political or ideological objectives. Usually, these acts are aimed at innocent civilians or non-combatants, increasing the fear and terror factor.

Who Carries It Out?

This form of terrorism is executed by a diverse array of groups and individuals. These can include state-sponsored organizations, religious extremists, separatist movements, and criminal syndicates. The unique characteristic of these groups is that they aren’t confined to a single country but operate across various nations. They employ a range of tactics to further their motives.

Impact of International Terrorism

International terrorism has a severe and far-reaching impact. The immediate effects can be devastating, leading to loss of life and significant property damage. But the consequences extend far beyond these immediate losses. Economies may suffer, communities may be traumatized, and the psychological toll on people can be substantial. The geopolitical fallout can also be significant. Terrorist activities can destabilize governments, contribute to the rise of extremist ideologies, and lead to the erosion of civil liberties.

Combating International Terrorism

To combat international terrorism, the international community has implemented various measures. Countries have developed international legal frameworks to define and prosecute acts of terrorism. Military and law enforcement resources are used globally to prevent and respond to terrorist activities. Governments have also invested in intelligence-sharing initiatives and cooperation mechanisms to pool resources and information. Despite these efforts, international terrorism remains a complex challenge. This situation demands constant vigilance and adaptability from governments and international organizations alike.

A Continuing Challenge

In conclusion, this type of terrorism is a significant challenge faced by countries worldwide. Despite the efforts of the international community to combat this issue, it remains an evolving threat that requires constant attention and innovative solutions. It’s important to keep in mind that addressing this issue isn’t just about responding to violence; it’s about understanding and addressing the root causes that lead to such acts. Only then can we hope for a world free of the terror that this form of crime instills.


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Last Modified: 05/26/2023

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