NCJ Number
189896
Date Published
July 1998
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This document focuses on key elements of initiatives on terrorist attacks.
Abstract
The first of the three key elements of a national counterterrorism strategy is to reduce vulnerabilities to terrorist attacks and prevent and deter terrorist acts before they occur. The second is to respond to terrorist acts that occur, end the crisis or deny terrorists their objectives, and apprehend and punish terrorists. The third is to manage the consequences of terrorist acts, including restoring essential government services and providing emergency relief, and to protect public health and safety. The creation of the President’s Commission on Critical Infrastructure Protection (PCCIP) reflects recognition that the integration of information technologies into public and private infrastructures such as telecommunications, finance, and transportation is producing not only greater efficiency and economic growth but also greater vulnerabilities to disruption. The PCCIP is divided into five work sectors: information and communications systems; energy; banking and finance; physical distribution systems (air, sea, and land transportation); and vital human services. The Nunn-Lugar-Domenici Act was enacted to enhance domestic preparedness and response capabilities and provide funding to improve capabilities of Federal, State, and local emergency response agencies. In addition, the theme of asymmetrical threats was addressed with the recommendation that the Department of Defense (DOD) remain lead executive agency. Also the use of the National Guard was advocated in a domestic preparedness and response role. Priorities include developing interagency processes with a National Coordinator; and developing national-level programs and exercises to coordinate capabilities.