Country Report on Counterterrorism: United States of America
American Journal of Comparative Law, Vol. 62, p. 643, 2014
Western New England University School of Law Legal Studies Research Paper No. 14-2
31 Pages Posted: 18 Jan 2014 Last revised: 17 Jul 2014
Date Written: 2014
Abstract
The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, led to profound changes in societal viewpoints, political agendas, and the legal authorization to combat terrorism. The United States continues to struggle with keeping its population safe while maintaining the principles of democracy and the rule of law essential to the nation’s character. The U.S. response to terrorism has been multifaceted and expansive, reflective of the U.S. role in global security; debate over these matters will continue for the foreseeable future.
This report, prepared for the American Society of Comparative Law, offers summary, analysis and critique of many aspects of counterterrorism law, including the definition of terrorism and designation of terrorist organizations; application of international law; criminal law treatment of terrorism, including financing and material support; investigative powers of intelligence and law enforcement agencies; treatment of immigrants; executive power and the CIA targeted killing program; detention and interrogation of terrorism suspects; and access to courts and the treatment of classified information.
Keywords: counterterrorism, terrorism, national security, intelligence gathering, terrorism suspects, international law, criminal law, executive power, rule of law
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