Thesis (MA) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research International Relations Department

Includes bibliography (sheets 50-55)

ABSTRACT With the case analysis approach, analysing the 30 years Northern Ireland sectarian conflict and the 26 years Sri Lankans civil war, I evaluate terrorist attacks perpetrated by Northern Irish groups and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. I assess whether responses to terrorism increase or decrease subsequent terrorist activity using two competing theoretical perspectives. The rational/deterrence choice theory is predicated on the notion that government harsh and quick response to criminal behaviours decreases terrorist attacks which also increases the cost of committing a crime, while the theory of legitimacy postulated that government retaliation increases subsequent attack by terrorist groups and also decrease government legitimacy. Using the case study method to analyse the Northern Ireland and Sri Lanka's government interventions of a terrorist attack. My results provide ample support for both rational choice theories and theories of legitimacy. The different approaches adopted by Northern Ireland and Sri Lanka, non-military and military counterterrorism approaches respectively were productive as they helped the governments to achieve certain height during the militancy confrontations. Overall, my results support the conclusion that military and non-military-oriented counterterrorism approach may be productive.