Strategies and actions taken by governments and security forces to prevent and fight against terrorism and terrorist attacks.
Compound word: 'counter-' (against) + 'terrorism' (systematic use of violence to create fear for political goals). The term became prominent in English after the 1970s as terrorism increased globally.
Counterterrorism reveals one of modern security's toughest paradoxes: protecting freedom sometimes requires reducing freedom through surveillance and restrictions. Countries constantly debate where the line should be, and experts argue that military force alone rarely stops terrorism—addressing root causes of anger and alienation is often more effective.
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