Lawmakers and CT.

THE role of parliaments in counterterrorism (CT) and addressing the underlying causes of Violent Extremism (VE) carries significance, which adds credibility.

Parliamentarians enact laws, set policies, allocate budgets, and oversee CT measures. Representing the interests of communities, particularly of vulnerable groups, they strive to uphold human rights. By monitoring the government's actions, lawmakers monitor compliance with international obligations related to CT and initiate parliamentary hearings and inquiries.

In South Asia, the political leadership has been the preferred target of violent actors in an effort to disrupt the democratic process. Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan president Ranasinghe Premadasa were assassinated in 1991 and 1993, respectively. Benazir Bhutto was murdered in a gun and bomb attack in 2007, but a policy of appeasement obstructed CT efforts. Aside from Ms Bhutto, many politicians in this country have lost their lives to violent extremism. Several have survived abortive suicide attacks. Peace accords were signed with militants, but without thorough input from lawmakers, they proved little more than an exercise in appeasement.

To improve responses to terrorism and VE within parliamentary functions, the UN OffA!ice of Counter-Terrorism has established parA!tA!nA!eA!rships with the Inter-Parliamentary Union.

Effective CT requires input from legislators.

As terrorism is a multifaceted threat to human security, the state is responsible for protecting the population from it through actions consistent with human rights and the rule of law.

Lawmakers must enact laws, and approve the domestic CT framework and oversight measures. The process increases their political ownership and improves adherence to international good practices. They are in a better position to engage civil society in the formation, development and implementation of a national CT strategy. Parliamentary oversight ensures a balance between CT operations and human rights standards. Dealing with issues related to extradition, victims of terrorism, mutual legal assistance and terrorism financing, requires a broader understanding. As community leaders, legislators are well placed to strengthen interfaith dialogue and work with clergy, educationists, and community elders. Such interactions help in preventing VE.

Given their direct link with the public, they can play an effective role in preventing recruiA!tment of youth by terrorist...