Human security, law, and the prevention of terrorism / Andrej Zwitter.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part I: Human security and causes of terrorism -- Working definition of human security -- An international legal perspective on prevention of terrorism and human security -- Human security measurement -- A root cause approach for political violence -- Ideology and the mobilization of terrorism -- Capabilities and opportunities From terrorism to conflict -- Part II: The legal and political dimensions of terror prevention -- Overview of action by the UN on terrorism prevention -- Incompatible practices of prevention and preemption The GWOT and aid in Iraq and Afghanistan -- The comprehensive root cause approach: Application of the framework developed --Conclusion; Appendix 1: European Commission check list for root causes of conflict; Appendix 2: Stewart, Frances, root causes of violent conflict in developing countries -- Appendix 3: Human security aspects and human rights

This study examines two important questions regarding terrorism and political violence: which threats to human security constitute root causes for collective violence and which adequate responses for these root causes are available to the international community. The responses are examined on the basis of international law, in particular human rights law, and within the concept of human security, with the goal of fostering a long-term reduction in political violence. Drawing on existing political discussions and research about the root causes of terrorism, Zwitter develops a legal framework for the application of legal terrorism prevention tools. This study serves as a framework of action and analysis using concepts and particularly legal frameworks which are already broadly or universally recognized to increase the applicability of the framework without having to invent new legal regimes. In doing so it makes use of the concept of human security for tackling breeding grounds and other facilitators of terrorism making it universally accessible.

Combining social science research with legal sociology and international law, this book will be of interest to students and scholars of politics, international relations, security studies, conflict studies and law.