Walka Unii Europejskiej z terroryzmem po zamachach 11 września 2001 roku na Stany Zjednoczone Ameryki

The attacks on the United States in 2001 were a warning for the modern world, but also a consequence of a long-term process initiated many years earlier, mainly the radicalization of attitudes and polarization among civilizations and cultures. The attacks were not an individual or isolated matter of the United States. The acts of terror in 2004 in Madrid and the London attacks of July 2005 showed that also Europe is not entirely safe and can become a target of subsequent attacks at any time. The European Union demonstrated its ability to undertake numerous initiatives. The EU bodies adopted a few dozen acts which are binding both in political and legal terms, organized numerous meetings and most of the EU institutions have become involved in commenting the phenomenon of terrorism, combating it and indicating its causes. A common definition of terrorism has been agreed on. It is worth considering though, if anti-terrorist measures already undertaken are adequate. The development of legislative provisions and an action plan, strengthening the EU institutions and consistent demonstration of involvement in the struggle with terrorism are not sufficient. Although the EU developed an excellent framework for setting up an anti-terrorist policy, the theory is not effectively translated into practical activities on the national level. First of all, the success of counteracting and combating terrorism depends on the effectiveness of actions at the national level. The 27 EU states constitute a cohesive commercial area, full of mutual links strengthened by the free flow of people, goods or capital, surrounded with common borders. Despite unquestionable successes, EU activities in the field of combating terrorism still encounter difficulties. The EU is at the beginning of the road to creating a cohesive internal security system. The Union has not developed a perfect idea for combating terrorism. Instruments must be sought to allow for more efficient prosecution of perpetrators, quick and safe exchange of information, to curb the financing of terrorist groups, anticipate actions, define common standards of protection of such facilities as airports or seaports and guard borders