[Advanced summer programme] Terrorism, counter-terrorism and the rule of law

From 28 August – 1 September 2023, the T.M.C. Asser Instituut and the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism will host the thirteenth Advanced summer programme on terrorism, counter-terrorism and the rule of law. In this thought-provoking summer training programme you will focus on the international and domestic legal aspects of countering terrorism and violent extremism, in inspiring and interactive classes by leading academics and practitioners in the field. 

Overview
The threat of far-right political terrorism has been steadily rising and far-right terrorist groups now account for 30 per cent of all fatalities in the period from 2007-2021 (Global Terrorism Index 2022). The war in Ukraine has triggered a further increase in traditional and cyber terrorism and has led to a further conflation of terrorism and armed conflict.

In 2021, the Islamic State (IS) replaced the Taliban as the world’s deadliest terrorist organisation. The Islamic State (IS) and its affiliate groups were responsible for 29% of all deaths from terrorism globally in 2021 (Global Terrorism Index 2021). While EU Member States have seen a reduction in the number of foiled, failed, and completed terrorist attacks (57 in 2020 in comparison to 117 in 2019 according to Europol), politically motivated attacks have been steadily on the rise with 73% of incidents being attributed to politically motivated groups and individuals (Global Terrorism Index 2021).

Across the world, extremist and terrorist activities have continuously triggered an increase in security laws and measures. To prevent terrorism and violent extremism as early as possible, states have grappled with defining terrorism and proscribing terrorist and extremist organisations, introduced early prevention mechanisms, and expanded domestic and international legal and policy toolkits to counter the ever-developing threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism.

Are these measures effective? Are these measures lawful, legitimate, and proportionate to their impact on the rule of law and human rights?

About the programme
The 13^th version of our renowned summer programme will bring you inspiring and thought-provoking lectures by leading experts in the field, interactive sessions, in-person study visits, group discussions (under the Chatham House Rule), panel presentations and a great, global network in the field. A preliminary programme will be available soon. 

Key topics

• Understanding the radicalisation of individuals and early prevention
• Gender dimensions of countering terrorism and violent extremism
• Countering terrorism and violent extremism in online spaces
• Latest trends in the development of counter-terrorism laws and policies at the international and European level, including by the UN and the EU
• Prosecution of terrorist acts and evidentiary challenges
• The role of the rule of law and human rights law in countering terrorism and violent extremism
• In-person study visits to Europol and Eurojust

Target audience

• Practitioners
• Diplomats
• Academics
• Civil servants
• Policymakers
• PhD candidates
• Security services
• People working for NGOs
• National and international experts