Lecture: Terrorism and Countering Terrorism: A Framework for Peace, Human Rights and Sustainable Development

LECTURE in the GGS Teaching Assistantship Programme 2018:

Eric Che Muma: Terrorism and Countering Terrorism: A Framework for Peace, Human Rights and Sustainable Development

(no regisration needed)

ABSTRACT
“Our world cannot be transformed into a better place if we do not respect peace, human rights, and
sustainable development when fighting terrorism.” (Eric C Muma)

The aftermath of the 11 September attack sparks up the need for states to accord protection to human life and freedom through the maintenance of international peace and national security. Although man is born free and equal, the common principle of everywhere in chains seems to have hindered the long-lasting peace which mankind has struggled for since the repercussions of World War II. One of such problems originates from the growing threat posed by terrorism and its negative impact on peace, human rights, development, and democracy. As commonly noted, there can be no peace without stability, human rights without peace and sustainable development without stability or peace. These concepts are intrinsically independent of each other and mutually reinforcing. This implies that the protection of one will eventually lead to the positive realization of another. The devastating consequences of terrorism and its negative impact on peace, human rights, and sustainable development has prompted several states, if not all, to adopt measures to counter-terrorism. The question of how, when and for whom these measures are often adopted and applied by states depends on the extent of their objectivity, certainty, and clarity. The aim of this lecture is to critically examine the concepts of terrorism and countering terrorism and to find out whether anti-terrorism measures adopted and applied by states have adequately served as a framework for peace, human rights, and sustainable development in a new world order.