The proposed Anti-Terrorism Law views the problem of terrorism purely through a security lens. International Alert is not against enacting a law that would eradicate terrorism. Our decades-long peacebuilding work, however, has shown that addressing the root causes of violence require a comprehensive approach that involves addressing conflict drivers and building communities resilient to the lure of recruitment – none of which were mentioned in the bill.

Read this briefer that explains and provides data explaining why the proposed Anti-Terrorism Law will lead to wrongful arrests and more violence. Muslims have long suffered the brunt of systemic discrimination that make them vulnerable to wrongful arrests. What is needed are mechanisms to safeguard and protect minorities against discrimination.