Terrorism threatens our security, the values of our democratic societies and the rights and freedoms of European citizens. The number of terrorist attacks from Islamic extremists and far-right nationalists have increased dramatically.
205 failed, foiled or completed terrorist attacks in 2017
1219 people arrested for terrorist offences in 2017
EU fight against terrorism
Fighting terrorism is a top priority for the EU and its member states as well as its international partners.
The EU strategy focuses on four pillars:
- prevent
- protect
- pursue
- respond
CSIS’s Transnational Threats Project director Seth Jones explains what’s happening with terrorism in Europe.
Following the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001, the EU established a list of persons, groups and entities involved in terrorist acts and subject to restrictive measures.
These restrictive measures are:
- measures related to freezing of funds and financial assets
measures related to police and judicial cooperation - The EU adopted a comprehensive approach to tackle the issues of foreign fighters and home-grown terrorism.
Fighting serious international and organised crime (EU Policy Cycle)
Recent actions in this area include:
- strengthened rules to prevent new forms of terrorism
- reinforced checks at external borders
- enhanced firearms controls
- creating a dedicated body to curb terrorist propaganda online
