Differences between Terrorism from Violent Crime and Insurgency - Essay Example

Many people believe that terrorism is similar to all other types of criminal violence, and insurgency, or at least possesses some substantial commonalities. The basic definition which differentiates the two is:

The basic notion behind terrorism is that terrorists are often state-supported and well-trained. They possess a particular goal to achieve and are representative of their group rather than opportunistic. In contrast to that, a common criminal is one who looks for an opportunistic target, lacks discipline and is selfish, and can be discouraged comparatively easily.

Generally, terrorists are well-trained as compared to ordinary criminals. Due to the fact that terrorists are well trained, skilled, and possess a specific goal in mind, the propensity of destruction and level of violence can be much higher than that which is created by criminals. Terrorists are so determined for their cause that they don’t get afraid of putting even their own life in danger (Goldstein, 2007).

Criminals usually operate within the span of their hideouts whereas terrorists operate within the boundary of an entire country. Many terrorists also operate internationally in geographic regions (White, 2006).

Differences between Terrorism and Insurgency
Insurgency is often called a political effort or movement established for a specific aim. This sets it apart from terrorism where individuals establish goals and do every possible effort to achieve them.

Another major difference between insurgency and terrorism is the intent of activities and operations. The ultimate objective of insurgency is to challenge the prevailing government through political concessions in order to share political power. Insurgency requires various kinds of support including external support, approval and recognition from other political parties, etc. whereas a group of terrorists doesn’t require support from any side (terrorism RESEARCH, n.d).

Insurgents usually describe themselves as “guerillas” or “insurgents” etc whereas terrorists describe themselves as “soldiers”, “activities”, “freedom fighters” etc. The reason is that terrorists usually avoid the negative connotations which can be associated with their identification. Terrorists avoid direct confrontations with the government. Insurgents may have some objections which make them clash with the governments (terrorism RESEARCH, n.d).

Ultimately, the differentiation between terrorism and insurgency comes down to the intention of the individual. Insurgents usually force to adhere to the norms pertaining to law and war for achieving their goal whereas terrorists conduct crimes under both military and civilian legal codes. Since the nature of the mindset of terrorists is absolutist, their objectives are of substantial importance and without considering any limitations, the terrorists pursue those objectives.