NCJ Number
106838
Journal
Terrorism Volume: 10 Issue: 2 Dated: (1987) Pages: 103-112
Date Published
1987
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This essay argues that while diplomats and diplomatic facilities are facing increasing dangers from international terrorism, the institution of diplomacy is becoming more secure as both terrorists and the states which support them recognize its value.
Abstract
The author reviews reasons why diplomats and diplomatic facilities are uniquely valuable targets for terrorists and comments that terrorist attacks are as much symptoms of current international uncertainties as they are causes. Moreover, no international terrorist group has managed to proceed beyond minor tactical successes and achieve its wider strategic objectives. To put the terrorist threat into perspective, the article notes that between 1968 and 1982, only 321 diplomats were killed and 824 wounded in terrorist incidents. It also emphasizes that terrorist attacks upon diplomats and diplomatic facilities have almost without exception been aimed at states, not at the diplomatic system. Terrorist are usually alert to the role that diplomacy can play in realizing their goals and seem to seek the legitimacy that diplomatic status represents. The greatest danger for diplomacy lies in the blatant disregard for diplomatic norms shown by some states and their use of terrorism as an extension of their foreign policies. International forums reveal a remarkable community of shared values and interests regarding the need to protect diplomats and diplomatic facilities. Because any solution to terrorism is likely to be imperfect and a long time coming, there is a great need for continued quiet diplomacy, moderate international initiatives, and more imaginative solutions. 36 footnotes.