Public Role and Engagement in Counterterrorism Efforts: Implications of Israeli Practices for the U.S.
Abstract
Many terrorism experts agree that the major objective of terrorist operations is to create an atmosphere of extreme fear and paralysis among the public. The public will then pressure the government to make policy changes in order to avoid future terrorist attacks, a result that terrorists may not be able to achieve on their own. Efforts that educate the public on terrorism and initiatives that strengthen the physical and psychological resilience of citizens may deprive terrorists of this potential weapon. Effective engagement and mobilization of the public in support of counterterrorism policies is critical for the success of counterterrorism efforts in two respects: first, proper education and awareness on the terrorist threat prepares the public for a terror-related disaster, rendering citizens able and willing partners in responding to the respective crises; second, a resilient public can resist the psychological and other potential disabling impact of a terrorist attack on a society, which deprives terrorists of an important weapon.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 02, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA533153
Entities
People
- Alex Karr
- Catherine Bott
- Kimberly Jones
- Rosemary Lark
- Sibel Mcgee
- Vikram Gupta