Does The ‘war On Terror’ Require Essay Example

to fear," over the past seven years. (Charkrabarti, 2009)

Limits should be placed on legislation to prevent the abuse of power in a society where surveillance has become increasingly prevalent, as highlighted in recent BBC news reports. Covert surveillance techniques, such as strategically placed CCTV cameras in areas highly populated by migrants and Automatic Number Plate Recognition cameras, are being utilized.

The lack of accountability among organizations responsible for monitoring CCTV cameras and other forms of surveillance has raised concerns about privacy violations (Foster, 2006, p. 136). This issue has fueled distrust towards government actions, as evidenced by numerous newspaper articles questioning their legitimacy. Davis and Silver (2004) argue that individuals who have less trust in the government are unwilling to sacrifice civil liberties for safety, regardless of the level of threat.

Hidden cameras for catching minor criminals in the UK have been criticized as an abuse of power due to increased national security measures. Local authorities have been accused of surveilling residents, even those who make innocent mistakes like putting out their garbage on the wrong day. This undermines the laws' intended purpose and raises concerns about possible injustices. Additionally, by denying detainees' rights at Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp, the Bush administration violates fundamental human and civil rights.

Back in 2004, Sandra Day O'Connor stated that it's ironic and regrettable how the US Government's domestic policies are contradicting the very principles it advocates on a global scale. To ensure we uphold our values abroad, we must remain committed to Due Process even in challenging times. Singling out specific groups from this obligation is unconstitutional and undermines everyone's right to fair trial.

David and Silver(2004) suggest that fear resulted

in US citizens giving up their desire for freedom. The aftermath of 9/11 showed that as people felt more threatened, they became less supportive of civil liberties and were willing to surrender some rights. Due to the emotional impact of innocent lives lost, national security has become crucial, making various government approaches acceptable. While the media has reduced the sense of threat surrounding this matter, Waddington (2005) argues that civil liberties are a pessimistic topic. He claims that accounts from civil libertarians have an excessively negative view and imply an ongoing erosion of civil liberties.

Although interest groups may use media to depict a sense of danger, most laws enacted by governments are designed for the betterment of society. The social contract endorses government action by granting authority to the state to govern and safeguard its people, even if it entails relinquishing certain freedoms. John Locke, an influential enlightenment philosopher, stresses the state's obligation to shield its citizens from oppression and aggression as a means of preserving liberty. Thus, anti-terrorism legislation could be regarded as a strategy for eradicating violence and establishing a freer community.

Despite strengthening existing legislation, the "war on terror" has placed limits to prevent infringing on personal liberties. The Data Protection Act aims to restrict the collection and storage of personal data by CCTV operators by limiting the duration images can be held and the number of civil servants who can view them. Overall, governments have passed legislation without considering public response or side effects, resulting in a trade-off between national security and civil liberties. To achieve a healthy balance, governments worldwide should strive for balance, despite the global environment we currently live

in. (Taylor, 2002)

Although the elimination of Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind 9/11 attacks, can be deemed a notable accomplishment in fighting terrorism, it is improbable that terrorist actions and threats will cease to exist in the foreseeable future. These incidents have already influenced various countries' policies and are likely to continue doing so for some time.