Kokoda Trilogy Proceedings: Towards an Effective Strategy for Countering Islamist Terror

Countering Terror Military Force and Diplomacy

In late 2007, the Kokoda Foundation assembled experienced strategic thinkers and practitioners from Australia and the United States to discuss key factors for success in countering Islamist terrorism. This synthesis distils the main outcomes of these discussions. Islamist terrorism is a complex linking of diverse peoples for a common purpose pursued over the long term. Those seeking to counter such terrorism need to define a realistic end state. This is achievable in the longer term but will entail a greater focus on sustainability of effort and husbanding of our collective will and resources. The struggle between Islamist terrorism and its opponents is not about winning or losing. It is about prudent risk management in a complex environment where terrorism is not the only priority concern. This approach avoids triumphalism and aspirations of victory in a traditional sense. Rather, it emphasizes specific and practical measures designed to diminish attack rates, disrupt terrorist networks and their support bases, and enable our citizens to go about their daily business without fear.