Report on Conference on International Terrorism - Protection of Diplomatic Premises and Personnel, Bellagio, Italy, March 8-12, 1982

• NCJ Number: 90390
• Journal: Terrorism Volume: 6 Issue: 3 Dated: (1983) Pages: 481-499
• Author(s): J F Murphy
• Date Published: 1983
• Length: 16 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Subjects covered include trends in terrorism, Middle East terrorism, domestic terrorism in Europe, U.S. policy toward terrorism and embassy protection of diplomats and diplomatic premises.

Abstract

With respect to trends in terrorist attacks against diplomats and diplomatic premises, it was noted that the last 2 years have seen a dramatic surge, a protection, international law and the protection of diplomatic premises and personnel, and proposals for reform in the 60 percent increase over the previous 2 years, with a wider range of targets and geographical scope. Middle East terrorism, particularly through the Palestine Liberation Organization, is said to fund and train terrorist groups all over the world. European reactions to domestic terrorism are said to be grossly inadequate, with problems of political crimes and political asylum with respect to extradition still unresolved. In the discussion of antiterrorist strike forces, a representative from the United States advised that the United States and a number of its Western European allies have developed highly trained elite forces to respond to any future terrorist incidents involving diplomatic personnel. With respect to possible changes in international law and diplomatic protection. There was a difference of opinion as the desirability of attempts to define international terrorism. Some were of the view that such definitions are crucial to effective action, while others considered it important to put aside this issue and focus on particular targets worthy of protection and particular acts worthy of prosecution and punishment. Reform suggestions focus on the prevention of terrorist attacks against diplomats, the management of terrorist incidents while they are in progress, the apprehension and prosecution of terrorists, and cooperation extending beyond the United States and its immediate allies. Tabular data are provided for international terrorist incidents for April-June 1982.