Counterterrorism Policies and Institutions in Northern Europe and the Baltic States

Abstract

Statistically, the countries of Northern Europe and the Baltic States have been among the least likely in the Western world to experience terrorism. However in recent years terrorist acts and increased concerns related to both domestic and international terrorism have manifested throughout much of the region. Whereas in much of Europe domestic terrorism has historically stemmed from separatist groups or political militants, most domestic terrorist attacks in Northern Europe have been lone-wolf style attacks perpetrated by mentally unstable persons. Militant Islam is the greatest international concern at present. Most immigrants to the region are Muslims from war-torn Mideast nations in which militant Islamist groups exercise influence. The Baltic States are primarily concerned with hybrid conflict including cyber-attacks related to tensions with Russia. In recent years a range of counterterrorism measures have been implemented throughout the region including improvements in security and intelligence capabilities, expansion of codified policies and increased multilateral cooperation.