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Strategies to Deal with Terrorism

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  • Bruno S Frey
  • Margit Osterloh

Abstract

Much of the research on terrorism has been devoted to analyzing and understanding the concept and consequences of terrorism, as well as the behavior of terrorists. In contrast, this article develops five new and concrete proposals for effective strategies against terrorism: (i) strengthening decentralization; (ii) encouraging fighters to leave the terrorist camp; (iii) reducing the incentives to enter terrorist groups; (iv) negotiating with terrorist groups; and (v) reducing media attention. The advantages and disadvantages of these strategies for curbing terrorism are discussed. They certainly are no panacea to solve terrorist threats. However, they are proposed, as possible ways to overcome the commonly propagated ‘war against terrorism’ proved to be of little effect, or even to be counterproductive.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruno S Frey & Margit Osterloh, 2018. "Strategies to Deal with Terrorism," CESifo Economic Studies, CESifo Group, vol. 64(4), pages 698-711.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:cesifo:v:64:y:2018:i:4:p:698-711.
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    terrorism; decentralization; negotiation; media; incentives;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D74 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Conflict; Conflict Resolution; Alliances; Revolutions
    • H56 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - National Security and War
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law

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