Comparing Counterintelligence and Counterterrorism – Similarities, Issues and Solutions
Purpose:
This paper aims to discuss and compare counterintelligence and counterterrorism, particularly in the aftermath of the Cold War and the rise of new forms of non-state terrorism, and critically examine the tendency of western liberal democracies to assign counterterrorism tasks to services traditionally involved in counterintelligence. The aim is therefore to identify similarities, differences and issues that arise between these two activities. In addition, some solutions to the issues presented are proposed.
Methods:
Models and concepts are developed and presented through analysis of primary and secondary sources. Several aspects are identified, leading to a comparative analysis being conducted.
Findings:
Counterintelligence and counterterrorism seem very similar at first glance, but differ from each other in certain important respects. They both lie on a spectrum between a ‘law enforcement model’ and an ‘intelligence model’, and can overlap when targeting state-sponsored terrorism or state and non-state actors’ intelligence activities. Yet they vary substantially when dealing with risks, time sensitivity and the sharing of information, and ignoring them can have a significant impact on national security.
Research Limitations:
Besides the secret nature of intelligence and, therefore, limited access to information, the paper primarily focuses only on states’ security apparatus and does not consider other political, societal or psychological actors or approaches.
Practical Implications:
In the paper, several solutions derived from the principle of the separation of counterintelligence and counterterrorism are presented for policymakers, while also calling for the establishing of sharing and coordination bodies.
Value:
This paper counters the prevailing paradigm that overemphasises the role of the traditional services involved in counterintelligence as part of the fight against modern terrorism. The findings and conclusions are intended for political, professional and wider public audiences.
UDC: 351.746.1:343.3
Keywords: counterintelligence, counterterrorism, intelligence and security services, law enforcement