The anti-terrorism law in the U.K. and its overall impact Coursework

The anti-terrorism law in the U.K. and its overall impact - Coursework Example However, in the middle of the middle of the government’s role to provide security of its citizens, the anti-terrorist laws have created a huge negative impact. This report will discuss the anti-terrorism law in the U.K. and its overall impact. Light will be shed on how this law has innocently disrupted lives. Introduction Oxford dictionary defines terrorism as the â€Å"unofficial and unauthorized use of violence in the pursuit of political aims (Oxford Dictionary, 2012).† Terrorism is not a new concept, it has been used since the prehistoric times but it is relatively hard to describe in words that can encompass the entire concept behind this term. Terrorism has been used as both, a tactic as well as a strategy; for criminal purposes and as a holy duty. Whatever is case; an act of terrorism is extremely reprehensible and has no justifications what so ever. Unfortunately, this line of thought is not adopted by all people. Terrorism has always been useful approach for th e side whose argument or strength is weaker as compared to the other. On a larger, national scale, terrorism is defined as the use of violence to inculcate fear in the minds of people and intimidate and coerce governments and different societies to pursue goals of the terrorists. The reason why terrorism is so wrong is because its influence goes way beyond just the intended victim, it at times have consequences for entire nations (Terrorism Research, 2012). Terrorism Ever since the incident of twin towers in America on 9th September, 2001, the threat of terrorism has magnified. Ever since that unforgettable day referred to as 9/11, terrorism is a word that looms large in the minds of people. War against terrorism is a commonly heard term and many different nations as well Britain are participants in this war to provide their citizens with a sense of security and to keep them safe from terrorists. However, for the United Kingdom, there is nothing new about the threat of terrorism or the legal response to it. Throughout the course of history, Britain has been the victim of many terrorist acts. However, for the purpose of this report, the events, legislation and the effect of that legislation prior to 2001 will not be considered. The disastrous occurrence of 9/11 did not result in any immediate or drastic change in the legislation that was directed towards curbing terrorism. Most of the legislation pertaining to terrorism already existed. However as a direct consequence of 9/11, The Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 were passed. This terrorism act incorporated in the British legislation has resulted in Britain having the most comprehensive legal framework in all of Europe to fight terrorism (Bennet, 2005). The Anti-Terrorism Act The Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 were aimed at amending the Terrorism Act 2000. Its purpose was to include more stipulation about terrorism and security. It provided provisions for the freezing of assets and immig ration and asylum. The act intended to amend as well as extend the scope of criminal law and its powers for preventing crime from happening and enforcing that law. The Act included in it laws which made retention of communication data legal. The Act also included provisions for the control of pathogens and toxins (Anti-terrorism, 2001). The major constituent of the bill was the government of the time’s determination to find a way of dealing with foreign nationals and visitors who were suspected of involvement in terrorism activities by