Acts of terror influence the legal, social, and political fabrics of the affected country. Therefore, the related responses are crucial in defining relevant and effective defence strategies. This essay evaluates legal issues associated with responding to terrorist attacks. Primarily, International laws offer a framework for countering terrorism and encouraging cooperation among different states that seek to combat and prevent terrorism (Guillaume, 2004). The framework comprises instruments which address specific terror elements as well as international tools that are designed to foster international cooperation in criminal law, protect human rights, and establish laws that cover the broader context of countering terrorism activities.
On the other hand, national law enforcers play a crucial role in combating terrorism (Fitzpatrick, 2003). The counter-terrorism measures in Europe changed after the 9/11 terror attack. For instance, cases of detention or imprisonment without trial increased, especially with regards to terror suspects. The legislation has been implemented in states that traditionally employed this approach to deal with suspected terrorists. Moreover, the definition of terror crimes was broadened in different states. Some states also established and revised regulations related to the special courts of security. Ideally, such measures are widely aimed at combating terror threats.
Additionally, military forces are widely used in the United States to deal with terrorists as well as related activities. For example, military actions were launched in October 2001 to detain Al Qaeda as well as Taliban remnants in Afghanistan. The U.S. accomplished the military operations with the help of allied troops. It marked a significant change in the strategy of countering global terrorism.
Besides, human rights movements employ institutional laws in combating terrorism. The movements have established fundamental standards that are used to counter or deal with terrorism. For instance, the U.N. has elaborate international instruments that it uses to combat acts of terror. The promotion and dissemination of humanitarian laws has also become a crucial aspect of fighting terror.
References
Fitzpatrick, J. (2003). “Speaking law to power: the war against terrorism and human rights.” European Journal of International Law, 14(2), 241-264.
Guillaume, G. (2004). “Terrorism and international law.” International and Comparative Law Quarterly, 53(03), 537-548.
