What Is Counterterrorism For?

Terrorism will always be frontpage news – counterterrorism is often discussed as an afterthought, yet it is vitally important to understand what is done in the name of our safety.

Since 9/11, there has been a huge ramping up of the state’s special powers in the name of security, such as indefinite detention, the assassination of suspected terrorists, the use of extraordinary rendition, torture, and changes to due process. However, these powers are often shadowy, they are rarely rolled back, and they can be counterproductive.

This book focuses on understanding the costs of counterterrorism and asking how they can be reduced; global in scope, it looks not just at Western liberal democracies, but at numerous examples from across the world.

“Wide-ranging, perceptive, and refreshingly hopeful, Leonie Jackson documents the problems of counterterrorism today while drawing us a map for finally escaping them. A must-read.” Lee Jarvis, Loughborough University

“Counterterrorism needs to be explored, analysed and critiqued. This book does all that in an accessible manner.” Sondre Onsgaard Lindahl, Østfold University College

“A clear, concise and deeply insightful analysis of why contemporary counterterrorism has failed, and a compelling argument for a more ethical, nonviolent response to political violence. Highly recommended.” Richard Jackson, University of Otago

“A well-researched critique of today’s ‘hybrid counterterrorism’ and an evidence-based call for a non-violent approach that privileges human security and democratic norms.” Ronald Crelinsten, University of Victoria

“An insightful and to-the-point reflection on counter-terrorism and its purposes, its history, and its main problems.” Alice Martini, Universidad Complutense de Madrid

1. What is Counterterrorism?

2. Counterterrorism in the 21st century

3. How did we get here? A short history of counterterrorism

4. The problems of counterterrorism

5. Ways forward

6. Conclusion