DEFINATION

• There are several International conventions on terrorism

with somewhat different definitions. The United Nations see
this lack of
agreement as a serious problem.
• In one modern definition of terrorism, it isviolence against
civilians to achieve political or ideological objectives
by creating fear.
• Terrorism is "the systematic use oft error especially as a
means of coercion."There is no internationally agreed
legal definition.
• Terrorism is also a form of unconventional warfare and
psychological warfare.
• One1988 study by the US Army found that over 100 definitions of the word
"terrorism" have been used. A person who practices terrorism is a terrorist.

Causes
Many opinions exist concerning the causes of
terrorism. They range fromdemographi c tosocioe conomic to political
factors. Demographic factors may include congestion and high
growth rates. Socioeconomic factors may include poverty,
unemployment, and land tenure problems. Political factors may
includedisenf ranchise me nt, ethnic conflict, religious conflict,territorial conflict, access
to resources, or even revenge.

Factors that May Contribute to Terrorism

• High population growth rates (so-called “youth bulges”)

• High Unemployment
• Lagging economies
• Political disenfranchisement
• Extremism
• Ethnic conflict
• Religious conflict
• Territorial conflict

Specific types of responses include:

Targeted laws, criminal procedures, deportations, and enhanced

police powers
Target hardening, such as locking doors or adding traffic barriers

Pre-emptive or reactive military action

Increased intelligence and surveillance activities

Pre-emptive humanitarian activities

More permissive interrogation and detention policies

Official acceptance of torture as a valid tool