The complexity of counter-terrorism policies and the importance of research and training: the case of Spain

Abstract

Terrorism, unlike other forms of violent conflict, has specific features that make it a complex and difficult reality to eradicate. For this reason, anti-terrorism policies, both nationally and internationally, must meet six basic characteristics: a) generality; b) multidimensionality; c) transnationalism; d) completeness; e) coherence and f) effectiveness. However, it is difficult to articulate effective anti-terrorism policies if there is no rigorous and general knowledge of terrorism and, at the same time, a specific knowledge of each terrorist group, its strategy and operational tactics. It is in the generation of scientific knowledge and operational experience that research and the diverse education systems of citizens play a decisive role.