Extradition as a method of combating international terrorism : a U.S. perspective

This study evaluates, through history and analysis, the value of extradition as a method of combating international terrorism during the past two decades, from the perspective of the U. S. experience. Through the adoption of an integrated framework, a case study approach is applied with the intention of illuminating major themes and issues relevant to state response and terrorist extradition, while exposing several underlying themes about the political relationship between extradition and terrorism. Historical analysis demonstrates that current methods of rendering fugitive terrorists are not just the simple application of international rules, but an evolving process of law. Alternatives to the use of extradition are also examined, with particular reference to state sponsored terrorism, their impact on extradition, the prospects for military retaliation, and the potential for alternatives such as an International Criminal Court. The evolving nature of terrorist extradition is examined in concert with the changing nature of terrorism itself, and how ultimately this influences not only the law, but also law enforcement. By utilising such an approach, the study seeks to extricate the fundamental issues behind U.S. extradition policy, and ultimately the usefulness of extradition as a tool against terrorism