Political Science and International Relations Terrorism

acquaint with basic characteristics of terrorism and its conceptualisation characterize selected ties of extremist movements to terrorist groups and the reflection of ethnic, ideological and religious elements into contemporary asymmetric conflicts The aim of the presentation

Content of the presentation Conceptualisation Characteristics of main motivations and forms of terrorism

TERRORISM -There is no united and generally accepted definition of terrorism -Terrorism can be understood as one form of asymmetric fight, it could be realized completely in isolation but also tied to other methods (e.g. Guerillas) -In many cases terrorism can have form of propagandist activity

CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES FOR TERRORISM: -Usually it is well in advance planned and thought of activity -Actors perceive their activity as mission which should help to fulfill the aim -They act in strict concealment -It comprises illegal use or threat of use of different forms of violence -The target is civilians and civilian targets -The primary aim is to intimidate -Usually it is realized by non state groups or organizations

Politically motivated terrorism The aims of political terrorism are tied with the ethno- separatist endeavours or political ideology Etnoseparatist terrorism – primary endeavors for full sovereignty or at least autonomy of territory inhabited by ethnic whose interests it strives to enforce. In European context - IRA, ETA, UCK etc. Ideological terrorism – strives for radical change of political system and implementation of own ideological stances or can be realized to hinder social changes (RFA, Red Brigades, Action Direct, Gladio)

Terrorism motivated by religion The aims of religious terrorism are frequently tied to other factors such as territorial or ethnic ambitious or to the political ideology. There are two main groups: Fundamentalist terrorism – strives for dominance of its belief and state structure based on theocratic principles. It does not accept other political principles and the system of values. Eschatological terrorism – typical for sects with apocalyptical- messiah opinions. The strive for purification of world through destruction (e.g.Óm sinrikjó) or finding of salvation through collective and mass suicides