Antiterrorism

Antiterrorism refers to policies, programs, and actions designed to prevent, deter, and respond to acts of terrorism and to reduce the vulnerability of societies to such acts. In practice, the terms antiterrorism and counterterrorism are often used interchangeably, although some policy discussions distinguish prevention and protection (antiterrorism) from offensive or prosecutorial measures (counterterrorism).

Core components include preventing radicalization, protecting critical infrastructure and public spaces, detecting and disrupting plots, and planning for emergency response and recovery. This encompasses law enforcement powers, intelligence gathering, border and transport security, aviation security, cybersecurity, and protection of sensitive information and facilities.

Legal and ethical considerations: measures typically operate within rule-of-law frameworks, with safeguards for civil rights, due process, oversight, and proportionality.

International cooperation: UN counter-terrorism frameworks, multilateral treaties, financial controls, information sharing, and cooperation among police, customs, and border agencies.

Challenges: evolving threats, homegrown extremism, use of social media, privacy concerns, risk of profiling, balancing security and civil liberties, resource constraints.

Overall, antiterrorism seeks to reduce the threat and impact of terrorism while maintaining democratic norms and human rights.