TERRORISM AS A GLOBAL THREAT AND THE LIMITS OF INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC LEGAL FRAMEWORKS AND RESPONSE

Abstract

Terrorism remains a current global challenge that threatens global peace, human security and the international legal order. Its transnational nature, diverse perspective and asymmetrical methods of violence have significantly challenged traditional legal systems and policy response at both international and domestic levels. This paper examined the complex nature of terrorism and its legal implications, focusing on the adequacy and limitations of international and domestic legal frameworks in preventing and responding to terrorism. At the international level, the absence of a universally agreed definition of terrorism has led to legal inconsistences and ambiguity in norms. Despite a plethora of sectoral counter terrorism treaties, no single comprehensive convention has been adopted. This vacuum hampers uniform enforcement, opens the door to politicized interpretations and weakens the legitimacy of global counter-terrorism efforts. Adopting a doctrinal research methodology, key instruments such as UNSC Resolutions 1373, 1624 and 2396 which imposed binding obligations on states are analyzed, weighing the adequacy of their safeguards for compliance with international human rights and humanitarian law. Domestically, national counter-terrorism legislation in Nigeria and other jurisdictions were examined. Vague definitions of terrorism have allowed governments to confuse and equate political opposition or activism with terrorism, leading to abuses, social polarization and fundamental right breaches. This paper assessed the effectiveness, proportionality and accountability of legal responses to terrorism. It recommended reform to include a comprehensive convention on terrorism, enhance judicial oversight mechanisms and robust safeguards to inhibit erosion of rule of law.
Keywords: Terrorism, Global Security Threat, Counter-Terrorism, Legal Response to Terrorism, State Responsibility