At the heart of the U.N. debate on terrorism are underlying issues of defining power, just war theory and double standards. There is some hope that in 2006 the long-awaited Comprehensive Convention Against International Terrorism, which includes a definition of terrorism, will be presented to the General Assembly. |
In the course of April 2006, the Secretary-General is likely to propose a broader strategy. |
The United Nations can set the ground rules for international behavior and it can enhance international coordination and cooperation. The U.N. can also build up the capacity of less developed countries through technical assistance programs. Capacity-building, however, must take place in a framework of the rule of law ? otherwise it contributes to strengthening state repression which in turn can foster further acts of terrorism. |