Strategies to Deal with Terrorism

Abstract

Much of the research on terrorism has been devoted to analyzing and understanding the concept and consequences of terrorism, as well as the behavior of terrorists. In contrast, this article develops five new and concrete proposals for effective strategies against terrorism: (i) strengthening decentralization; (ii) encouraging fighters to leave the terrorist camp; (iii) reducing the incentives to enter terrorist groups; (iv) negotiating with terrorist groups; and (v) reducing media attention. The advantages and disadvantages of these strategies for curbing terrorism are discussed. They certainly are no panacea to solve terrorist threats. However, they are proposed, as possible ways to overcome the commonly propagated ‘war against terrorism’ proved to be of little effect, or even to be counterproductive.