Terrorism is a complex political including security issue that threatens the world even today. Due to the complexity of the issue, there is not a single definition of terrorism. However, in simple terms, it can be said that terrorism is an act carried by an individual or a group to intimidate people and convey a political or religious message to a government and the civilians. Terrorism is not a modern-day phenomenon; it has been carried out by people during different historical periods and geographical areas. The destruction, killing, and maiming carried out in the name of terror is not an end. It is done to terrorise anyone who is linked to the victims of the attack.
While today terrorism attacks have reduced in numbers, people still feel threatened. This is because people believe that terrorism is one of the most important security problems of our day. While there are countries which have suffered from little to no terrorism, there are other countries that continue to face the issue of terrorism. Terrorist attacks are motivated by goals such as socialism, nationalism, religious extremism, or exclusionism. Modern-day terrorism has consequences for both the people and the global community. It is therefore important to understand the extent of terrorism in the world. Since the attacks of 9/11 that took place in the United States, many countries have taken strict action against the acts of terrorism. While strict measures are always pushed for there are other complications that are important to investigate.
The landscape of terrorism and counter-terrorism is complex and sensitive due to various factors. It is necessary to learn about the origins of terrorism. Moreover, we also need to look at the role of technology in the rise of terrorism and how it plays a pivotal role in spreading terrorist propaganda.
In this unit you will explore more such issues, the reasons behind terrorism, why the lack of definition of terrorism causes problems and what are the steps taken by countries to prohibit the criminal phenomena known as international or transboundary terrorism.
