Defining Terrorism & its Root Causes:
references to the definition of terrorism and the root causes as discussed in
the UNGA debate "Measures to eliminate international terrorism"
October 1-5, 2001, United Nations, New York
This document compiles references made to the definitions and root causes of
terrorism by Member States in the debate of the 56th Session of the United Nations
General Assembly on "Measures to Eliminate International Terrorism".
Definitions of Terrorism
In the General Assembly debate, the lack of a working definition of terrorism
was repeatedly noted. In a briefing produced by the United Nations half way
through the debate, it was noted that "the absence of a definition seriously
undermined international efforts to tackle a grave threat to humanity."
One of the first things that will need resolution in the negotiation of a Comprehensive
Convention on Terrorism will be the question of a definition. Reaching Critical
Will has collated the following from speakers to the debate on terrorism to
provide an easy reference tool for non-governmental organizations and interested
Member States.
Root
Causes of Terrorism
While discussing the elimination of terrorism, clear calls were made by some
governments to examine the root causes of terrorist acts. A number of governments
indicated that terrorism does not happen in a vacuum, but rather occurs for
reasons of economic degradation, as well as social and political alienation.
Freedom fighters and those struggling for independence were an area of great
contention, both in defining the term terrorism, and identifying its root causes.
1. DEFINITIONS of Terrorism
In alphabetical order by nation:
ALBANIA
Statement by Ambassador Agim Nesho, Permanent Representative of Albania to the
United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Terrorism is a scourge that takes innocent lives, threatens values of
humanity, human rights and freedoms and impedes development and world progress.
The fight against terrorism should rise above the individual interests of states
and can not be justified with differences in the social development or cultural
and social disparities.
…
This fight, in no way, can be confused with the legitimate struggle of the people
for freedom and self-determination, equality and respect of their democratic
rights and, furthermore, can not be used to justify the intransigent stands
of some countries to not respect the rights of citizens in the multi-ethnic
society and principles and laws of democracy therein."
ANGOLA
Statement by H.E. Mr Ismael A. Gasper Martins, Permanent Representative of the
Republic of Angola to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"Terrorism is a scourge that affects all of us as it threatens the very
way of life we have come to cherish.
It challenges the economic and political institutions we have erected. It undermines
the principles of interaction among states. It negates due process. And worst
of all, it fails to adhere to internationally accepted standards for conflict
resolution.
…
Terrorists destroy vital social and economic infrastructure in their arbitrarily
selected target countries.
Through their actions, terrorists deprive innocent victims of their livelihoods.
In their existence, terrorists undermine the will of the governed and the internationally
accepted."
ARGENTINA
Statement by Ambassador Arnoldo M. Listre, Permanent Representative of Argentina
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"However, under the aegis of the United Nations system, resolutions and
agreements have been approved that reflect the increasing will of the international
community to define, without exceptions, every terrorist act as a criminal act.
For the Argentine Republic, there is absolutely no doubt that terrorist practices
are, in every case, criminal and unjustifiable acts, whatever the aim of their
authors might be. These deliberate and indiscriminate attacks against civil
populations, which international law considers a crime when committed in times
of war, can also only be considered extremely serious crimes in times of peace."
AUSTRIA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Dr Gerhard Pfanzelter, Permanent Representative
of Austria to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"The UN must pay particular attention to the broader aspects in the fight
against terrorism, especially to the root causes, and contribute to a frank
and inclusive dialogue between and within civilizations. The UN is the ideal
organization to meet this challenge and to develop comprehensive strategies
based on the multitude of existing initiatives and projects in this field."
BENIN
Statement by Ambassador Joel Wassi Adechi, Permanent Representative of Benin
to the United Nations - 5 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"The fight against terrorism will be long and arduous, and we will have
to show resolution to surmount these difficult times. To this end, we do not
have any other choice but to define the ambiguity of the concept of terrorism
if we want to maintain and consolidate a general mobilization to defeat this
menace."
BURKINA FASO
Statement by Ambassador S.E.M. Michel Kafando, Permanent Representative of Burkina
Faso to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"In our humble opinion, Mr President, in the first place all the states
have to have the same definition and the same comprehension of terrorism. Otherwise
unfortunately where would be? Depending on their interests, countries don’t
have the same conception or the same perception of terrorism and relations with
terrorists. What is qualified as an act of terrorism for some can be interpreted
as a nationalist freedom fighter for another. So how can we have the understanding
that some terrorists are good while others are bad?"
CAMBODIA
Statement by Ambassador Ouch Borith, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom
of Cambodia to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"Terrorism is defined as the sustained, clandestine use of violence, murder,
kidnapping, bombings, to achieve a political purpose. It prevails throughout
history in the horrors and sufferings of colonialism, through the subversion
of entire countries and peoples, and throughout the cold wars. Terrorism cuts
across national borders while Governments are often targets, more often innocent
civilians have been victims, and property, both private and public, has been
also destroyed.
…
At this juncture, I would like to recall that definitions in the US Intelligence
and Surveillance Act of 1979 and the United Kingdom Prevention of Terrorism
Act of 1976, clearly underlines the use of violence to coerce or intimidate
the civilian population in order to affect the government policy."
CHILE
Statement by Ambassador Juan Gabriel Valdes, Permanent Representative of Chile
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"Terrorism on the other hand, stands outside the pale of any human values.
It is a primitive and totalitarian ideology of politics, a commitment to murder
and violence transformed into a method of war against innocent people."
COLOMBIA
Statement by Ambassador Alfonso Valdivieso, Permanent Representative of Colombia
to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"The acts, methods and practices of terrorists are criminal acts that are
unjustifiable and contrary to the purposes and principles of the United Nations.
They are a threat to the peaceful and civilized co-existence of our peoples,
to the stability of our institutions and to global peace and security.
…
We must overcome the differences of opinion that for many years have prevented
us from reaching consensus on a common definition of international terrorism
and on the persons to whom conventions on terrorism should apply. Colombia is
of the view that international terrorism differs from other serious crimes because
its aim is to sow terror among the population and to destabilize or force a
government or an international organization to take or refrain from taking some
action. I repeat, for us terrorism is defined by its objective and we therefore
condemn any terrorist act, irrespective of its authors, their motivations, methods,
practices or the place where the act is committed. We must once and for all
isolate terrorism from its political context in order to be able to combat it
for what it is, namely, a grave crime against the lives of innocent persons."
COMMONWEALTH OF DOMINICA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Simon P. Richards, Permanent Representative of
the Commonwealth of Someinica on behalf of the Caribbean Community - 4 October
2001
"Terrorism breeds within societies, and exploits the infrastructure of
democracy, freedom and tolerance. It releases its wrath upon the innocent unknowing,
intending to infiltrate those societies and their infrastructure, and, thus
perpetuating economic and humanitarian crises."
ERITREA
Statement by Dr. Amare Tekle, Diplomatic and Foreign Affairs Advisor Office
of the President - 4 October 2001
"[Terrorism] is immoral as it is criminal. It violates basic human rights
and human values. It is in fact a crime against humanity. It is an attack on
human dignity. It is a justification of hatred, intolerance and violence. It
spawns fear and insecurity and anarchy."
ETHIOPIA
Statement by Ambassador Abdulmejid Hussein, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia
to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"Terrorism is multi-faceted. It therefore demands extraordinary collaboration
among states to combat the danger it presents. Terrorism is the use of violence,
or the threat of violence to create a climate of fear in a given population.
This it does by maiming and killing indiscriminately."
FIJI
Statement by Ambassador H. E. Mr. Amraiya Naidu, Permanent Representative of
Fiji to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"Some states thrive on internal terrorism lending legitimacy to the politicization
of violence, which itself is an anathema to a culture of peace, stability and
human rights. Fiji is a victim of terrorism impacting on our body politic and
undermined our nation building in the last two decades. Not surprisingly, terrorism
has defied attempts at its definition.
…
Advancing our global vigilance for basic human rights promotes peace and, inversely,
defies terrorism.
We agree with the Secretary-General that the moral definition of terrorism is
clear to all. Likewise, its legal definition if properly guided by ethics and
logic should serve as leverage for, rather than to impede our elaboration. Political
expediency or neutrality has no place in this equation.
GHANA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Permanent Representative of
Ghana to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"We recognize as criminal, acts intended or calculated to provoke a state
of terror among the general public who are innocent people. My delegation calls
for an early definition of the concept of terrorism, in ways that leave little
ambiguity as to what it is, and to galvanize broad international support in
the fight against terrorism, however defined."
GRENADA
Statement by Dr. Lamuel Stanislaus, Permanent Representative of Grenada to the
United Nations - October 5, 2001
"When hatred and violence determine the actions of individuals, the result
can only be extreme behavior that causes the wanton and callous destruction
of life and property. The view that hatred is bred by feelings of dispossession,
imbalance and inequality cannot be ignored and we must consider taking steps
to reduce the economic and social imbalances that exist in our world community,
which would no doubt assist in our fight against terrorism."
INDIA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Mr Kamalesh Sharma, Permanent Representative of
India to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"We know that there can be a concern that a war against terrorism might
turn into a witch-hunt. Some argue that a distinction must be drawn between
freedom fighters and terrorists. To this, we would say, as the Secretary General
reminded us on Monday, that the laws of civilized behavior should apply to all.
Normatively, international humanitarian law does not permit methods or means
that can only be described as terrorism in the pursuit of any cause. And the
great leap forward in international law over the last few years has been the
emergence of the norm that there can be no impunity for crimes that constitute
a grave violation of human rights.
…
When political office, and bureaucratic or diplomatic immunity, have not protected
some who committed grave violations, and have now been brought to justice, it
cannot be admissible to argue that freedom fighters or any other group would
be the only individuals who would be above all laws. Terrorism is defined by
the act, not by a description of the perpetrator.
…
But there is an even more insidious way in which terrorists undermine human
rights. As the events of September 11 showed, terrorists are driven, not so
much by blind rage, as by a clear-eyed hatred of the values that open, liberal,
secular societies represent. There is an inevitable progression in plural, democratic
societies to ever greater freedoms for their citizens, balanced by civic responsibilities
freely undertaken; the citizens of the freest societies in the world enjoy freedoms
now that their parents did not have."
IRELAND
Statement by Mr Brian Cowen T.D., Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ireland -
2 October 2001
"These acts of barbarous terrorism and the determined international response
which must necessarily follow do not, as some have suggested, represent a conflict
between civilizations, or a religious war. International terrorism strikes at
the universal values, including that of religious tolerance, on which the United
Nations is founded. Our collective response to these outrages must uphold these
values and bring stark relief to the differences which divide those who uphold
the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and those, hiding in
our midst, who would seek to subvert them."
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Dr. M. Javad Zarif, Deputy Foreign Minister of
the Islamic Republic of Iran - 2 October 2001
"Every one who is serious about fighting terrorism, especially those in
a position of global power, would be well advised not to resort to statements
and policies emanating from emotions intertwined with the arrogance of power
that could only further entrench the mentality that produced terrorism.
…
Terrorism has no religion, no nationality or ethnic background. It is indeed
the negation of everything religions stand for."
ISRAEL
Statement by Ambassador Yehuda Lancry, Permanent Representative of Israel to
the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Let us be clear: the indiscriminate murder of innocent civilians to advance
political or religious objectives is terrorism, not matter how its apologists
seek to label it."
LIBYAN ARAB JAMAHIRIYA
Statement by Ambassador M.E. Mr Abuzed Omar Dorda, Permanent Representative
of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"We reiterate the invitation which we made on January 1992 (Document A/46/890)
to convene an international conference, or a special session of the General
Assembly, to study the issue of terrorism, in order to reach an accurate definition
of what constitutes terrorism, a definition not dictated by subjective whimsical,
or selfish, classifications. Such an objective definition can be used as a criterion
by all of us in determining what terrorism is, and who terrorists are. Occupation
must be on the top of the terrorist acts that the world should decide to confront
and eliminate."
MALAYSIA
Statement by H.E. Ambassador Hasmy Agam, Permanent Representative of Malaysia
to United Nations - 2 October 2001
"The need for objectivity and impartiality is essential if terrorism is
to be suppressed through collaborative efforts of the international community
without any equivocation. This is particularly so, given the tendency in some
quarters to associate terrorism with a particular group or community of people.
The stereotyping of terrorism is not a constructive approach in dealing with
the problem. It would be a great disservice to the cause that unites us in the
wake of the recent tragic events. It creates mistrust among nations when what
is urgently required is to build confidence among them that is so essential
in the global effort to combat this menace. Terrorism is the common foe of the
global community; it should not be coloured with ethnicity or any form of religious
affinity. Terrorism has no religion or nationality and serves only the selfish
personal or group interests of the perpetrators and their sponsors. Herein lies
the importance of the need to enhance greater understanding among the peoples
of the world through a dialogue among civilizations which, we sincerely hope,
would be given a higher priority in the agenda of the United Nations.
…
Acts of pure terrorism, involving attacks against innocent civilian populations
- which cannot be justified under any circumstances - should be differentiated
from the legitimate struggles of peoples under colonial or alien domination
and foreign occupation for self-determination and national liberation, as recognized
by the relevant resolutions of the United Nations and other international declarations."
MAURITIUS
Statement by Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, Permanent Representative
of Mauritius to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"Terrorists have no human or moral values, no respect for human rights
and in fact no religion. The only religion they profess is to terrorize, maim
and inflict maximum human sufferings and material damage. It is therefore important
not to confuse terrorism with any ethnic group or religion."
MONGOLIA
Statement by Ambassador J. Enkhsaikhan, Permanent Representative of Mongolia
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"My delegation believes that given political will, terrorism could be defined.
In this respect my delegation agrees with the Secretary-General that there can
be no acceptance of those who would seek to justify the deliberate taking of
innocent human life, regardless of cause or grievance."
MOROCCO
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Mr Mohamed Bennouna, Permanent Representative of
the Kingdom of Morocco to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
" The sectorial approach adopted for the definition of certain terrorist
acts in international conventions with a view to criminalizing these acts proved
to be inadequate to fight the scourge. On the other hand, all those who believed
that its mere invocation would suffice to heap shame and discredit on others
unfortunately trivialized the concept of terrorism. It is therefore high time
for our Organization to start a process of clarifying the concept of terrorism
at the light of the recent developments in international law and particularly
the adoption of the statute of the International Criminal Court, in Rome, in
July 1998.
…
Indeed, there lies the crux of any definition of terrorism. Any indiscriminate
act against innocent civilians constitutes a terrorist crime that international
law condemns, regardless of the perpetrator's status or position in the state
hierarchy.
…
This requires addressing the serious imbalances which still plague our planet
and drive disadvantaged groups in a cultural and religious seclusion thereby
seeking refuge in extremism."
NEW ZEALAND
Statement by Ambassador Mr Don MacKay, Permanent Representative of New Zealand
to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
" But possible gaps remain in that international framework. For example
in relation to the threshold for what is an 'international' terrorist act."
NIGERIA
Statement by Ambassador Chief Arthur C.I. Mbanefo, MFR, Permanent Representative
of Nigeria to the United Nations
"Terrorism is a global menace. It is, indeed, a scourge which needs to
be frontally confronted. It is a violation of our fundamental human rights,
especially the right to life and that of peaceful coexistence. The terror and
tragedies that terrorists unleash on innocent and unsuspecting citizens pose
a serious threat to the stability of all societies. It threatens existing democratic
institutions. Emerging democracies are very vulnerable to tragedies which such
terrorist attacks cause. That is why the international community must be very
determined and firm in their resolve to confront and defeat terrorists, their
network and collaborators."
OMAN
Statement by Ambassador Fuad Bin Mubarak Al-Hinai, Permanent Representative
of the Sultanate of Oman to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"My country's delegation further calls against upholding double standards
in dealing with terrorist acts, and not to confuse between such activities and
the right of people to their struggle against occupation and the protection
of their land, taking into consideration that their struggle is guaranteed under
international law. And we reaffirm at the same time that the principles of Islam
and its teachings call for tolerance and to eliminate all forms of violence,
terrorism and extremism, a matter that requires there be no link between terrorism
and Islam, so that this war against terrorism does not turn into a conflict
between religions and civilizations."
PAKISTAN
Statement by Ambassador Shamshad Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan
to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"No matter what actions we might contemplate against terrorism, this faceless
enemy, which lurks in the shadows of fear and frustration, breeds on hatred
and disillusionment and fed by ignorance and poverty will not disappear unless
we build global harmony and stability through mutual tolerance and shared prosperity.
It will continue to haunt us if the roots of terrorism which He in the inequality
of societies, in the exploitation of downtrodden, in the denial of fundamental
rights and in the sense of injustice are not addressed. It would be too simplistic
to merely focus on the symptoms or their ugly manifestations. Terrorism has
now emerged as a different challenge which has to be dealt with in a resolute
and measured manner.
…
Terrorism is the negation of human dignity. Human dignity can neither be achieved
nor guaranteed in an environment of abject poverty and denial of inalienable
rights. Most countries, if not all, represented here today have at one point
in history or another chosen their own destinies based on the principle of self-determination
of peoples. Yet, in contravention of this universal principle, there are peoples
even today who remain deprived of their fundamental right of self-determination.
The Security Council resolutions pertaining to their destiny and future remain
unimplemented in the archives of this Organization. It is time for courageous
decisions, for correcting historic wrongs and for redressing endemic injustices."
PHILIPPINES
Statement by H.R. Mr Lauro L. baja, Jr, Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs for
the Republic of the Philippines - 2 October 2001
"Terrorists wish to instigate a religious war. We must make this an opportunity
to forge religious understanding, ecumenism and solidarity."
QATAR
Statement by Ambassador Nassir Abdulaziz Al Nasser, Permanent Representative
of Qatar to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
" Everyone is aware of the critical role of the mass media in shaping public
opinion, be it domestic or international, regarding any question, and of their
major responsibility to observe impartiality and complete objectivity in covering
events such of those that took place in the USA recently. Terrorism must be
acknowledged for what it is: deliberate acts of violence aimed at maiming, killing
or devastating innocent civilians without hesitation or mercy in the pursuit
of the terrorists' objectives."
REPUBLIC of IRAQ
Statement by Ambassador Mohammed Aldouri, Permanent Representative of Republic
of Iraq to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Combating terrorism requires first of all an agreement on the definition
of terrorism, a clear definition that is not misleading or vague, so that it
would not be mixed up with acts that are not related to terrorism or would exempt
clear terrorist acts, for purely political and advantageous reasons.
…
In other words every act in violation of international law as mentioned above
is terrorism, if carried out by a person, organization or state, and everything
that falls within the international law as it was stated before the American
domination of the world, we do not call terrorism."
REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA
Statement by Ambassador HE. Lami Kawah, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Liberia to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"At the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government,
held in Algiers, Algeria, July 1999, the Organization of African Unity adopted
a Convention on the Prevention and Combating of Terrorism. This Convention explicitly
acknowledged the fact that terrorism constitutes a serious violation of human
rights and, in particular, the rights to physical integrity, life, freedom and
security, and impedes socio-economic development through destabilization of
States. It came to the conclusion that political, philosophical, ideological,
racial, ethnic or other motives could never be justifiable in defense of terrorist
acts.
…
Find the causes of despair and poverty and act upon it
…
Finally, Mr. President, we must admit in all candor, that it will be impossible
to eliminate terrorism unless, and until, some sort of consensus is reached,
on the norms that would govern world unity and togetherness. As has been said,
"The earth is but one country, and mankind its citizen."
REPUBLIC of MOLDOVA
Statement by Ambassador Dr. Ion Botnaru, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Moldova to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Moldova actively supported the adoption of the 1994 Declaration on Measures
to Eliminate International Terrorism which underscores, inter-alia, that terrorist
acts are 'in any circumstances unjustifiable, whatever the considerations of
a political, philosophical, ideological, racial, ethnic or any other nature
that may be invoked to justify them'."
REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA
Statement by Ambassador Mr. Martin Andjaba, Permanent Representative of the
Republic of Namibia to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"The human tragedy 11 September has again shown what terrorism has always
stood for calculated acts of death and destruction hurting, killing or destroying
innocent civilians and property, without mercy. The goal is the subordination
of human life to terrorists' objectives."
REPUBLIC OF SAN MARINO
Statement by H.E. Ambassador Gian Nicola Filippi Balestra, Permanent Representative
of the Republic of San Marino - 1 October, 2001
"Under the international criminal law, the attack of September 11th can
be characterized as a crime against humanity, because of its large scale and
because directed against the civilian population. It is a duty for all States
to assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice."
REPUBLIC OF SIERRA LEONE
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Mr . Ibrahim M. Kamara, Permanent Representative
of Sierra Leone to the United Nations - 5 October 2001
"My delegation believes that focus must now turn on a precise and comprehensive
definition of international terrorism. We all know what it is but that is not
enough, we must demonstrate the political will and commitment to agree on a
definition.
…
Defining the Scourge of international terrorism is not enough. We must also
engage ourselves in finding solutions to the problems that the terrorists use
to justify their actions. Our involvement must be seen to be fair, just, transparent
and neutral. We must not allow ourselves to be seen as supporting without mitigation
only one side of the conflicts, for these rightly or wrongly give succor to
those who engaged in the abominable acts we witnessed within the United States
on September 11."
REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE
Statement by Ambassador HE. Dr. T.J.B. Jokonya, Permanent Representative of
the Republic of Zimbabwe to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"Terrorist acts are criminal whatever the motives of the terrorist or the
cause served. Terrorism is defined by actions, not by the cause it is intended
to serve. Killing innocent civilians and hijacking airplanes are all terrorist
even though those responsible may see them as a means toward liberation or some
other ideal.
…
Whatever the programme of action that will emerge from today's deliberations,
it must be underscored that the relationship between international politics-foreign
affairs and international law is often somewhat ambiguous with respect to the
problem of terrorism. There is no commonly accepted legal definition of terrorism,
just as there is not commonly accepted political definition. However, as Professor
Robert Friedlander has argued "even though there is no acceptable legal
definition; there need not be if one deals with terrorism as a criminal act.
Whatever the means and however employed, acts of terror-violence are common
crimes in every civilized society on this earth. Therefore, an exact legal definition
is not necessary, if one merely deals with the elements of the actus reus (conduct)
in question: murder, serious bodily harm, reckless endangerment, international
infliction or severe mental distress". The judgement by Friedlander reflects
the usual impatience of the legal mind with what is essentially a political
and diplomatic process."
SAMOA
Statement by Ambassador Tuiloma Neroni Slade, Permanent Representative of Samoa
to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Terrorism threatens fundamental rights because it is blind to, and the
very antithesis of human rights and fundamental freedoms and what is decent
in society. As demonstrated time and again, terrorism has no respect for social
order or for human life and property.
…
The particular difficulty for law enforcement agencies is that terrorism takes
not one but different forms. What makes it especially dangerous today is the
fanaticism that drives it, the choice of increasingly dangerous and sophisticated
weaponry and the calculated preference for dramatic and lethal devastation."
SAUDI ARABIA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Fawzi A. Shobokshi, Permanent Representative of
Saudi Arabia to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"There is no doubt that states where terrorist acts take place have the
right to pursue the wrongdoers, to arrest them and to put them on trial. The
objective should be to eradicate all forms of terrorism and not revenge. The
history of terrorism shows us that the best way to suppress it is to explore
its roots and identify the causes which engender it and find just solutions
to the different conflicts. What happened in the United States places the international
community in a position of great responsibilities but terrorism was not born
on September 11, 2001. It will not be eradicated by military means or by being
treated as a mere problem of law and security. Developed armaments and new techniques
are not sufficient response either."
SENEGAL
Statement by L'Ambassador Papa Louis Fall, Permanent Representative of Senegal
to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"Whether it comes from States or non-state actors, terrorism can in no
case go unpunished, nor excused."
SWEDEN
Statement by Ambassador Pierre Schori, Permanent Representative of Sweden to
the United Nation - 3 October 2001
"Only through determined and united action can the international community
come to grips with the evil forces of terrorism. Terrorists aim at creating
fear and uncertainty, and at provoking Governments and other decision-makers."
UNITED KINGDOM
Statement by Sir Jeremy Greenstock, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"Increasingly, questions are being raised about the problem of the definition
of a terrorist. Let us be wise and focussed about this. For the most part, terrorism
is terrorism. It uses violence to kill and damage indiscriminately to make a
political or cultural point and to influence legitimate governments of public
opinion unfairly and amorally.
There is common ground amongst all of us on what constitutes terrorism. What
looks, smells and kills like terrorism is terrorism. SCR 1373 sets out clear,
urgent and acceptable measures for every Member State to deal with it, collectively,
under the aegis of the United Nations.
But there are also wars and armed struggles where actions can be characterised,
for metaphorical and rhetorical force, as terrorist. This is a highly controversial
and subjective area, on which, because of the legitimate spectrum of viewpoints
within the United Nations membership, we will never reach full consensus.
War in human history has, for the most part, thank goodness, engaged human honour:
there are rules. At the edges, dishonourable actions may share some of the characteristics
of terrorism."
ZAMBIA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Prof. Mwelwa C. Musambachime, Permanent Representative
of the Republic of Zambia to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"By definition, terrorism means violent acts intended to create a state
of fear and insecurity in the general public or a group of persons. My delegation
has noted with great admiration the response of the American people to these
acts of terror. They have not been intimidated. Instead, they have become more
united and determined in their resolve to recover from this tragedy."
_________________________________________
2. Root Causes
In alphabetical order by nation:
ARMENIA
Statement by Ambassador H.E.Mr. Movses Abelian, Permanent Representative of
the Republic of Armenia to the United Nations - 4 October, 2001
"No religion is evil, no religion justifies killing innocent people, but
any religion can become a deadly weapon if utilized and manipulated where entire
communities are struck by poverty, disease, illiteracy and bitter hopelessness.
The United Nations should double its efforts in the fields of economic development
and poverty eradication, since these are the strategic battlefields in the war
against terrorism. Donor countries can contribute to the success of this war,
not only by sending military force to the areas of concern, but also by providing
more generous financial assistance to the poorest -- directly or through UN
agencies."
AZERBAIJAN
Statement by Ambassador Mr. Yashar Aliyev, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Azerbaijan to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"In the long run, as an ultimate goal, the international community should
fight against not only terrorist organizations and individuals; but also should
do it utmost to eliminate causes and grounds of terrorism, which mostly are
of political nature."
BELIZE
Statement by Ambassador Mr. Stuart Leslie, Permanent Representative of Belize
to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Not only are we steadfast in condemning terrorism, we are also committed
to work to put an end to its existence by eliminating those forces which lay
at its root cause."
BENIN
Statement by Ambassador Joel Wassi Adechi, Permanent Representative of Benin
to the United Nations - 5 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"Terrorism is not an isolated phenomenon, it is the result of political
manipulation, but is also fed by long-brewing frustrations from social inequality,
marginalization and exclusion."
CAMBODIA
Statement by Ambassador Ouch Borith, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom
of Cambodia to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"We must analyze the causes of the tragedy which is also essential to find
solutions to the all encompassing horror of terrorism. No suicidal "terrorist"
gene is known to exist or is likely to be found. Therefore, surely the attackers,
and their supporters who were all presumably born normal, were afflicted by
something that caused their metamorphosis from normal human beings capable of
gentleness and affection, into desperate and fiendish beings with nothing but
murder in their hearts and minds. What was that? It is for all of us to collectively
and honestly engage in soul searching to find the answer. For only through an
understanding of the underlying causes can we fight terrorism with effectiveness."
COSTA RICA
Statement by Ambassador Bernd Niehaus, Permanent Representative of Costa Rica
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
On the long run, the respect for Human Rights in all spheres of life is the
best
protection against terrorism. We are well aware that political oppression, extreme
poverty and the violation of basic rights are the feeding grounds of extremism
and
terrorism. Conversely, true and sustainable peace is born out of mutual respect,
dialog and the renunciation of violence. For this reason, it will only be possible
to eradicate terrorism once a decent quality of life is guaranteed to every
person,
the fundamental rights are respected and the political controversies are solved
through democratic means.
COTE D'IVOIRE
Statement by Ambassador S.E.M. Djessan Philippe Djangone-Bi, Permanent Representative
of Cote D'Ivoire to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"Unfortunately there has not been consensus on the definition of the generic
word "terrorism". In effect, how can the international community efficiently
fight this problem if there are such divergent differences on the nature of
this problem?"
DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
Statement by Ambassador H. E. Mr. Li Hyong Chol, Permanent Representative Of
the Democratic People's Republic of Korea To the United Nations - October 2001
"Acts of terrorism result from various political motivations and purposes,
and they are committed in arbitrary and reckless manner.
…
Since terrorism emerges as a serious international problem, the member states
will have to properly find out the root cause of terrorism and consider ways
and means to cope with it in effective and practical manner.
…
Member states will have to have correct concept on terrorism and discharge their
national obligations to eliminate it, and at the same time, contribute, in fair
and unbiased way, to the efforts of the international society to uproot the
cause of terrorism."
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC
OF CONGO
Statement by Ambassador Mr Ileka Atoki, Permanent Representative of DRC to the
United Nations - 2 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"As our penal code does not include a clear definition of terrorism, as
is the case in many other countries, my country has always preconceived a policy
of prevention and repression of international terrorism at the internal level
to the regional and international level.
…
My delegation is of the view that the concept of terrorism does not have to
be only limited to acts perpetrated by individuals or isolated groups. It must
include a larger notion which includes more organised actions such as states
using it as a political instrument and therefor the nature of the consequences
are more grave."
DENMARK
Statement by Ambassador Ellen Margrethe Loj, Permanent Representative of Denmark
to the United Nations - 5 October, 2001
"Terrorism undermines everything it claims to be fighting for.
The underlying causes to terrorism must of course not be ignored but properly
addressed. Combating international terrorism cannot, however, await a solution
to the tensions fostering this phenomenon. Terrorism is a crime whether committed
in times of peace or during armed conflict."
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Statement by Dr Hugo Tolentino Dipp, Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs -
4 October 2001
"On the other hand, we wish to reiterate our conviction that terrorism
is a phenomenon linked to multiple circumstances, whose origins go beyond ideological
concepts. And even so, and not denying the work that logically corresponds to
the security bodies and to the military institutions to counterattack, it is
necessary to analyse its causes in order to behead the thousand-headed hydra
it has been until today.
…
The persistence and increase of injustices, misery, starvation, drugs, exclusion,
prejudices, despair for lack of perspectives, multiply delirium and irrationality,
which many times shows up through uncontrolled violence.
…
The fight against terrorism must be, first of all, one of prevention, combat,
and interdiction of such social illnesses."
FINLAND
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Marjatta Rasi, Permanent Representative of Finland
to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
" The General Assembly of the UN has made an important and indispensable
work in recent years in building a consensus on the basic principle
that terrorist acts, wherever and by whom ever committed, are criminal and unjustifiable
by any political, religious or philosophical considerations.
Terrorism may grow out of inequality and oppression, but such circumstances
do not justify terrorist acts. There is no "just" terrorism, whatever
the causes. At the same time, understanding and eradicating the underlying causes
of terrorism poses a challenge to societies and to the
international community."
GERMANY
Statement by Ambassador Dr. Dieter Kastrup, Permanent Representative of Germany
to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"The United Nations must engage its full potential to identify and eventually
eradicate the
deeper roots of terrorism."
GHANA
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Nana Effah-Apenteng, Permanent Representative of
Ghana to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
" The face of terrorism is one bloodied by its evil intention. Increasingly,
the objectives of today's terrorists are suicidal and, apparently, they have
no demands to negotiate. We, therefore, need to move from a culture of reaction
to one of prevention. More importantly, there is the need to identify, understand
and address the underlying causes that permit such hatred, however misguided,
to grow and fester. It would be ironical, if in this year of Dialogue Among
Civilizations, the recent terrorist acts are misconstrued as a clash of civilizations."
HAITI
Statement by Ambassador Pierre Lelong, Permanent Representative of Haiti to
the United Nations - 4 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"In this ruthless battle against terrorism, the international community
must identify its roots. The statistics regarding injustices are abundant- we
know them all, but tend to respond with indifference. The international community
must, under the guidance of the United nations and under the concept f tolerance
and solidarity, form a great coalition against poverty, ignorance, misery, famine,
social exclusion, marginalization, tasks which are now more urgent than ever."
HUNGARY
Statement by Ambassador Andre Erdos, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Hungary to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"For this struggle to be effective, adequate solutions should be found
to the many issues which create instability and conflict and which are the breeding
ground for the phenomenon of terrorism."
ISLAMIC REPUBLIC
OF IRAN
Statement by Ambassador H.E. Dr. M. Javad Zarif, Deputy Foreign Minister of
the Islamic Republic of Iran - 2 October 2001
"Terrorism is a heinous product of the outdated paradigm of international
relations. That paradigm was founded on the "will to power" and the
arrogance that was associated with it: that "might makes right". As
"might" ruled, injustice prevailed and hatred flourished, some who
were dispossessed were inclined to resort to terror and violence. We must eradicate
terrorism by changing the prevalent mentality that provided a fertile ground
for the growth of this menace."
ITALY
Statement by Ambassador Sergio Vento, Permanent Representative of Italy to the
United Nations - 3 October 2001
"The Italian Government is convinced that the desire for decisive, lasting
results in the fight against international terrorism should not lead us to neglect
the broader picture. In other words, this fight should be accompanied by measures
aimed at promoting stronger government institutions, safeguarding the human,
civil, economic and cultural rights of all communities, fostering the return
of refugees to their homes, and rebuilding the social and economic fabric."
LIBYAN ARAB JAMAHIRIYA
Statement by Ambassador M.E. Mr Abuzed Omar Dorda, Permanent Representative
of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"We express our readiness for cooperation; in a positive and constructive
manner, with the International Community through the United Nations with of
combating terrorism. We call upon others to undertake through the United Nations
similar actions in order to tackle the root causes and natives of terrorist
acts with the objective of eliminatory terrorism once and for all."
MALAYSIA
Statement by H.E. Ambassador Hasmy Agam, Permanent Representative of Malaysia
to United Nations - 2 October 2001
"In my Prime Minister's view, for global efforts to effectively curb terrorism,
it is important for the international community to deal with the phenomenon
objectively and impartially. The international conference, which should be organized
by the United Nations, must examine the issue of terrorism comprehensively,
including its definition, root causes and appropriate measures to deal with
it. The measures that are now being contemplated, including the use of armed
force, would not solve the problem as long as issues related to the oppression
of peoples in several parts of the world, particularly in Palestine, remain
unresolved. While Malaysia strongly supports efforts to curb terrorism, it is
timely for the world community to give serious attention to solving problems
which drove people to resort to terrorism. This is not to excuse, or mitigate
blame on the use of terror, as there can be no excuse or mitigation whatsoever
for such acts, but to appreciate the complexity of the problem of international
terrorism so that we will be better able to combat it with all the means at
our disposal."
MYANMAR
Statement by Ambassador U Kyaw Tint Swe, Permanent Representative of the Union
of Myanmar - 4 October 2001
"There can be no excuse for terrorism. It must not be condoned under any
grounds whatsoever. We recognize, however, that poverty breeds discontent and
alienation. Poverty alleviation could be an effective measure in our efforts
to combat terrorism."
NEW ZEALAND
Statement by
Ambassador Mr Don MacKay, Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the United
Nations - 2 October 2001
"The United Nations can contribute to the fight against terrorism in many
practical ways including by addressing the underlying causes of injustice that
give rise to the killing of civilians all over the world - in Europe and Asia
as well as the Middle East. It is important to try to address the alienation
of the young in situations of economic deprivation and political tension and
uncertainty, so that they do not through a sense of injustice and lack of hope
become fertile ground for terrorist recruitment."
NIGERIA
Statement by Ambassador Chief Arthur C.I. Mbanefo, MFR, Permanent Representative
of Nigeria to the United Nations
" The world has responsibility to find out the root causes of terrorism.
One pertinent question may be asked: what makes someone so desperate as to give
his life to kill others and reverse global progress in the manner we witnessed
on September 11, 2001 in New York and Washington DC? This debate would achieve
nothing if at the end no conclusions were reached on solutions which will be
in three stages: immediate, medium and long term. The General Assembly must
pursue this all important issue through its normal channel."
PAKISTAN
Statement by Ambassador Shamshad Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan
to the United Nations - 2 October 2001
"We must tackle the causes that give rise to forces of hatred and violence.
Individual acts of madness or behavioral insanity of groups that snuff innocent
lives are both crime and disease. Crimes must be punished; disease treated at
its roots."
PALESTINE
Statement by Ambassador Dr Nasser Al-Kidwa, Permanent Observer of Palestine
to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"We must also try to understand what happened and to realize that a successful
battle will require rethinking some policies with political, social and economic
repercussions with the aim of achieving more just situations everywhere. Why
exactly did the terrorists do what they did on the 11th of September? I am unable
to give a decisive answer about the reasons for this diabolic act.
The reasons might include a rejection of the West with all its cultural dimensions,
which is something we cannot solve through different policies and it has nothing
to do with Arabism, Islam or indeed with any logic. We, of course, firmly reject
conflict among civilization and we stand for dialogue among civilization and
the nurturing of humanity on the basis of diversity and tolerance.
But we should not stop here. We have to look into the negative positions and
feelings of millions of Arabs and Muslims towards the United States and some
other Western States. These are positions and feelings that grow stronger everyday,
competing with the reasonable mainstream and steering it towards extremism.
We have to look into the reasons for such a situation that provides a breeding
ground for the emergence of groups and actions such as that which took place
on the 11th of September."
REPUBLIQUE GABONAISE
Statement by Ambassador Denis Dangue Rewaka, Permanent Representative of La
Republique Gabonaise to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"Because terrorism affects fundamental rights, and because it targets arbitrarily
and in an indiscriminate way with innocent victims and because it feeds the
terror that it generates, terrorism constitutes a grave menace to peace and
security for people in all nation."
REPUBLIC of IRAQ
Statement by Ambassador Mohammed Aldouri, Permanent Representative of Republic
of Iraq to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"On the other hand, we should also recall that the discussion of this subject
within this organization was linked from the beginning with the
necessity of studying the roots of the problem and the reasons that lie behind
committing the actions, which are to be combated. We should
all admit the Large shortcomings in this field.
…
Today's world suffers from a number of negative phenomena, and what we are witnessing
of global suffering especially in the third world because of coercion, economic
and political blackmailing, the use of force and aggression, the unilateral
disposition of international relations on the basis of the law of force and
not of the force of law and the distinction among peoples and communities on
the basis of their culture, ethnic and religious origins. All of these phenomena
contribute to create dangerous elements that arouse feelings and approaches
against injustice and tyranny in its worst forms."
REPUBLIC OF MACEDONIA
Statement by Ambassador Srgjan Kerim, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Macedonia to the United Nations - 3 October 2001
"All nations are rightfully preoccupied with issues related to the aftermath
of September 11th , but we must also be reminded of the need to address the
conditions that gave rise to the growth of such hatred and depravity.
…
The conclusions to be drawn from the recent terrorist attacks on the US must
be clear. Globalization and interdependence are bringing enormous benefits to
all of us, but they are also creating new strategic risks; the vulnerability
of globally-integrated information and communication structures, the diffusion
of potentially dangerous technologies, or the combination of fundamentalism,
and political irresponsibility and access to weapons of mass destruction. These
are global challenges and, therefore, can only be managed jointly, particularly
in regard to fighting international terrorism. No State can guarantee security,
peace and stability by itself."
REPUBLIC OF NAMIBIA
Statement by Ambassador Mr Martin Andjaba, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Namibia to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"Indeed, it is out of our firm belief in the dignity of all people that
we continue to press for the elimination of hunger, poverty, deprivation so
that we all can feel a sense of belonging to the human family. Only then shall
we have eliminated the breeding ground for fear, for want and for despair in
which terrorism thrive."
SAMOA
Statement by Ambassador Tuiloma Neroni Slade, Permanent Representative of Samoa
to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
"And we need to bear in mind that fighting terrorism cannot be separated
from the task of preventing organised crime, the spread of small arms and other
weapons, and of containing and ending conflict. We need also to ensure that
the conditions of poverty and despair that breed ignorance, hatred, violence
and extremism are properly and effectively addressed."
SENEGAL
Statement by L'Ambassador Papa Louis Fall, Permanent Representative of Senegal
to the United Nations - 4 October 2001
[INFORMAL TRANSLATION]
"Before concluding, I wish to stress the necessity for the international
community to address with fervent determination, on the causes inherent in terrorism
and the situations which lead to misery, exclusion, reclusion, the injustices
which lead to growing frustration, desperation and exasperation."
SOUTH AFRICA
Statement by Ambassador Dumisani S. Kumalo, Permanent Representative of South
Africa to the United Nations - 1 October 2001
"The world should unite in the fight against terrorism. In this effort,
the immediate task is to ensure that the perpetrators meet their just desserts.
In the medium term, the challenge is to understand the root causes of these
despicable acts and to eradicate them worldwide."
SWITZERLAND
Statement by H. E. Ambassador Jenö C.A. Staehelin, Permanent Observer of
Switzerland to the United Nations - 5 October 2001
"However, the recourse to force alone will not suffice to eliminate terrorism.
In the long term, there exists no other way to ensure international security
and prevent such despicable acts than to reinforce international co-operation
with a view to eradicating poverty, preventing and resolving conflicts and effectively
promoting human rights and the rule of law. To this end, the international community
must act more decisively than ever."
UGANDA
Statement by Ambassador Fred Beyendeza, Permanent Representative of the Republic
of Uganda to the United Nations - 4 October, 2001
"As we confront the scourge of terrorism, the United Nations must continue
to address conditions that give raise to hatred, depravity, extremism and fundamentalism.
Indeed the United Nations should seek to achieve the millennium targets to address
the causes of conflict, ignorance, disease and poverty."
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