Question

In 150 words or more, explain how terrorist organizations are identified. What features need to be in place in order for an organization to be considered an “FTO”? What is the process involved with placing the organization on the State Department’s list? Do you think this is an effective method for combatting terrorism? Why or why not?

Answer 1

In order for terrorist organizations to be identified, some specific characteristics have to be determined according to section 219 of the INA (Immigration and Nationality Act)

These organizations have to endanger national security, be active and be responsible for planning and carrying out previous attacks.

An FTO is considered such if it fulfils the following criteria:

- The organization has to be foreign.

- The activities carried out by this organization have to endanger or threaten national security.

- The organization has to take part in, or have the ability or intention to take part in a terrorist attack.

For these types of organizations to be put in the State Department's list, the Bureau of Counterterrorism in the State Department (also known as CT) investigates and monitors the activities carried out by groups that could possibly be considered FTOs.

I personally think this method is very useful and helps prevent future attacks. Also, this classifying methods help distinguish organization that could potentially create massive chaos and possibly the death of innocent people.

Answer 2

Once a target is identified, CT prepares a detailed "administrative record," which is a compilation of information, typically including both classified and open sources information, demonstrating that the statutory criteria for designation have been satisfied. If the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury, decides to make the designation, Congress is notified of the Secretary’s intent to designate the organization and given seven days to review the designation, as the INA requires. Upon the expiration of the seven-day waiting period and in the absence of Congressional action to block the designation, notice of the designation is published in the Federal Register, at which point the designation takes effect. By law an organization designated as an FTO may seek judicial review of the designation in the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit not later than 30 days after the designation is published in the Federal Register.