International terrorism and national security of Uganda: a case of Kampala metropolitan policing area.

Abstract

This research study explored the impact of international terrorism on national security in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Policing Area, Uganda. The study had three specific objectives: first, to examine the predisposing factors for international terrorism in the region; second, to investigate the nature of international terrorism and its effects on dimensions of national security; and third, to analyze the effectiveness of strategies implemented to counter international terrorism. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The quantitative approach, involving questionnaires, aimed to quantify incidents and describe current conditions related to international terrorism and national security in the region. The qualitative approach, including interviews, sought to gather in-depth insights and understand the concepts, opinions, and experiences of key stakeholders involved in counterterrorism efforts. The study population comprised various actors, including directorates of counter-terrorism, intelligence agencies, local chairpersons, community members, and Members of Parliament on relevant committees. The sample size was determined to be 171 respondents, selected through simple random and purposive sampling strategies. The findings revealed that political instability, weak governance, high youth unemployment, economic inequality, radical interpretations of Islam, grievances related to religious discrimination, the psychological appeal of extremist ideologies, and the desire for acceptance within radicalized peer groups are predisposing factors for international terrorism in the region. Regarding the nature of international terrorism, the study identified suicide attacks, deliberate targeting of civilians, psychological impact, kidnappings, hostage-takings, breakdown of societal cohesion, and economic impact as common features. These factors had adverse effects on various dimensions of national security, including psychological impacts, societal cohesion, and social-economic sectors. To counter international terrorism effectively, the study recommended addressing political instability and governance weaknesses, promoting youth employment and economic opportunities, fostering religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue, providing psychological and social interventions, and adopting an integrated approach involving international collaboration and community engagement. Furthermore, the study recommended enhancing intelligence and information sharing, strengthening border security, engaging with communities to build trust and resilience, implementing counter-radicalization programs, addressing socioeconomic grievances, and disrupting terrorist financing to improve the effectiveness of counterterrorism strategies.