Terrorism is commonly defined as violent acts (or the
threat of violent acts) intended to create fear (terror), perpetrated for a
religious, political, or ideological goal, and which deliberately target or
disregard the safety of non-combatants (e.g., neutral military personnel or civilians). Another common definition sees terrorism
as political, ideological or religious violence by non-state actors. Some definitions now include acts of unlawful violence and war. The use of similar
tactics by criminal organizations for protection rackets or to enforce a code of silence is usually not labeled terrorism, though
these same actions may be labeled terrorism when done by a politically
motivated group. Usage of the term has also been criticized for its frequent
undue equating with Islamism or jihadism, while ignoring non-Islamic organizations or
individuals. In the international community, terrorism has no legally
binding,criminal-law-definition.
The word "terrorism" is politically
loaded and emotionally charged, and this greatly compounds the difficulty of
providing a precise definition. A study on political terrorism examining over
100 definitions of "terrorism" found 22 separate definitional elements
(e.g. Violence, force, fear, threat, victim-target differentiation). In some
cases, the same group may be described as "freedom fighters" by its
supporters and considered to be terrorists by its opponents. The concept of
terrorism may be controversial as it is often used by state authorities (and
individuals with access to state support) to delegitimize political or other
opponents, and potentially legitimize the state's own use of armed force
against opponents (such use of force may be described as "terror" by
opponents of the state). At the same time, the reverse may also take place when
states perpetrate or are accused of perpetrating state terrorism. The usage of the term has a controversial
history, with individuals such as ANC leader Nelson Mandela at one point also branded a terrorist.
A broad array of political organizations has
practiced terrorism to further their objectives. It has been practiced by both
right-wing and left-wing political parties,nationalistic groups, religious groups, revolutionaries,
and ruling governments. The symbolism of terrorism can exploit human fear to
help achieve these goals.
…………………………….By Faith Gabriella
