The African Union (AU) has been engaged in a continental struggle against terrorism since its creation. Recently, the regional organization has come under increasing scrutiny in its response to major transnational actors, its record in ensuring that member states are equipped with rudimentary counterterrorism equipment, and…
The government of the United States is engaged in a regrettable standoff concerning how to respond to a series of deadly white supremacist attacks against innocent citizens. Sadly, no one, to include politicians, talking-heads, the media, and even among pro and anti-gun activists, has addressed a pivotal question: will the…
Covering the period of President Barack Obama and President Donald Trump a host of significant trends in counterterrorism have developed. This post addresses two issues: to briefly list some of the most significant trends in terrorism and those in counterterrorism (or those that impact counterterrorism practices). Second, this post…
The April 21, 2019 Easter terrorist bombings unleashed violence on a religious Christian holiday. This post addresses three distinct issues. It opens with a discussion of the terrorist attack. Second, the post examines Sri Lanka’s counterterrorism practices. Third, the post provides an autopsy of the counterterrorism failures and lessons learned. …
For two-plus generations the United Nations (UN) is committed to confronting the threat posed by international and transnational terrorism. This post addresses the early efforts of the UN and subsequent organizations and offices that have endeavored to engage in actions and activities consistent with counterterrorism. This post examines recent United…
President Donald Trump’s decision on December 19, 2018 to withdraw American forces from Syria unleashed a tsunami of piquant criticism. Much of that criticism is described below. At issue, how does the president’s decision inform us about his leadership in the area of counterterrorism? Criticism of Trump’s Withdrawal Decision…