【明報專訊】Our world is increasingly convulsed by antagonisms or confrontations at individual, organisational, religious and national levels. Suffering from oppression, some people might become radicalized by nationalistic, political or religious thoughts. They might resort to premeditated terrorist attacks either to pursue their idea of "justice" or to seek the international community's attention.

◆Generally speaking, a terrorist attack

1. is politically motivated;

2. is not carried out by a national institution; and

3. involves the use of violence – or the threat of it on citizens randomly or without warning.

Terror groups are not bound by international law or protocols, and their actions are difficult to predict.

Ways to tackle transnational terrorism include resolving religious conflicts, improving the economies of less advanced countries, stepping up anti-terrorism capabilities and promoting international cooperation on intelligence.

◆Personal Development and Interpersonal Relationships x Globalisation

Why do young people join terror groups?

The European Commission reported in April 2015 that about 6,000 Europeans had travelled to Syria to take part in terrorist activities, adding that the number might be an underestimate. Some believe some groups of Muslims who had grown up in Europe or America joined ISIS because they found it hard to be integrated into society owing to poverty, ostracization or discrimination.

ISIS supporters make use of the Internet and social media to recruit new blood. They release their messages in different languages. ISIS takes pains to promote the group as an Islamic Utopia and make disillusioned young people believe that their lives will be better if they join ISIS.

Globalisation Cultural conflicts x terrorism

In France, the separation of church and state has long been followed strictly. Religion is barred from the public arena. Conflicts between different religions and cultures are thus evident. France has about five million Muslims, more than any other European country. In 2016, the French authorities banned in many regions the burkini, a kind of Islamic swimsuit, saying it is related to radical Islam. That angered many Muslims. Court later overturned the ban.

Policies on refugees x loopholes in counter-terrorism

Because of globalism, people from different countries have enjoyed increased mobility. Countries have relaxed border checks and granted visa-free access. However, by launching terrorist attacks, a tiny number of Muslims have given people a bad impression of Islam and caused Islamophobia in Europe. Meanwhile, policies on immigration and refugees have led to disagreements about resource allocation and security. Far right politicians in Spain, Germany and France are strongly critical of multiculturalism and are demanding the tightening of immigration and refugee policies.

Free market x cross-border attacks

Globalisation has brought about free trade. With less governmental interference, terrorists have found it easier to conduct cross-border activities and acquire weapons and financial resources. ISIS, for example, makes money by smuggling petroleum and natural gas to Turkey's black market.