Terrorism, counter-terrorism and the rule of law
“Terrorism represents the denial and destruction of human rights. And so the fight against it will never succeed if we perpetuate the same denial and destruction. In fact, human rights can be the greatest weapon we have in fighting terrorism. Evidence shows that counter-terrorism efforts that are solely security-focused rather than human-rights based can inadvertently increase marginalization and exclusion, thereby perpetuating the same conditions that can lead to terrorism in the first place.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres, 19 June 2023
In August 2025, the T.M.C. Asser Instituut and the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT) will host the 15th Advanced summer programme on terrorism, counter-terrorism and the rule of law. In this thought-provoking summer training programme you will focus on the international and domestic legal aspects of countering terrorism and violent extremism, in inspiring and interactive classes by leading academics and practitioners in the field.
Overview
For nine consecutive years, the Islamic State (IS) and its affiliated groups remain the deadliest terrorist organisation globally (Global Terrorism Index). Terrorist attacks have become more deadly, marking the first rise in lethality rate in the last five years. Notably, the Sahel region in sub-Saharan Africa has emerged as the epicentre of terrorism, with 43% of the global fatalities linked to terrorism occurring in this region (Global Terrorism Index 2023).
In the West, ideological terrorism persists as the predominant and deadliest manifestation of terrorism. Although there has been a decrease in the overall number of attacks, the year 2022 witnessed 14 fatalities, all linked to individuals adhering to far-right views (Global Terrorism Index 2023).
The interconnected relationship between environmental decline and conflict is now evident as the majority of countries affected by terrorism are experiencing at the same time ecological degradation and climate-induced shocks (Global Terrorism Index 2023).
Across the world, extremist and terrorist activities have continuously triggered an increase in security laws and measures. To prevent terrorism and violent extremism as early as possible, states have grappled with defining terrorism and proscribing terrorist and extremist organisations, introduced early prevention mechanisms, and expanded domestic and international legal and policy toolkits to counter the ever-developing threat posed by terrorism and violent extremism.
Are these measures effective and do they take into account victims’ rights and needs? Are these measures lawful, legitimate, and proportionate to their impact on the rule of law and human rights? What are the future threats and how can they be countered while respecting the rule of law and human rights?
About the programme
The 15th version of our renowned summer programme will bring you inspiring and thought-provoking lectures by leading experts in the field, interactive sessions, in-person study visits to Europol and the International Criminal Court (ICC), group discussions (under the Chatham House Rule), panel presentations and a great, global network in the field.
Key topics & speakers
To be announced. See our programme from last year's edition.
Target audience
- Practitioners
- Diplomats
- Academics
- Civil servants
- Policymakers
- PhD candidates and advanced students
- Security services
- People working for NGOs
- National and international experts
After successful completion of this summer school, you will receive a certificate from the T.M.C. Asser Instituut.
This programme is coordinated by Dr Niki Siampakou, joint researcher at the Asser Institute and the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT). She is part of the Asser Institute's research strand 'In the public interest: accountability of the state and the prosecution of crimes'. Her work focuses on the appropriate legal responses against violent extremism and terrorism, with a particular focus on (inter)national criminal justice and human rights considerations.
Registration and questions
The final dates of this programme will be announced later. Please keep an eye on our website, social media, and newsletter for further registration details.
For more information, please contact educationtraining@asser.nl We will get back to you in two working days.
Terms and Conditions
Please read our terms and conditions before registration.
