The Utility of NGO Interventions: Influences on Terrorist Activity

• In Event: Responses to Terrorism

Abstract

This study explores the potential relationship between non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and terrorist organizations (TOs). NGOs and TOs often operate in defense of shared constituencies in conflict areas. While they may have similar campaign goals, NGO and TO tactics vary considerably, leading to a diversity of allegiances between the organizations and the constituents they represent. The need for constituent support to ensure group survival and legitimacy may create a competitive dynamic between NGOs and TOs. It is hypothesized that NGO presence in a conflict area can lead to an escalation in TO activity as TOs attempt to eliminate potential competitors (NGOs) and demonstrate their power to the constituents. This study examines this hypothesized relationship using TO activity data from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD) and precursor NGO activity data from the Government Actions in a Terror Environment (GATE) database between 1984 and 2011 in Algeria, Lebanon, and Turkey.

Author

• Omi Hodwitz, University of Maryland, College Park