Resident Program Director Leads Discussion Group During LCT Course.

30 participants from 28 Countries met in Newport, RI for DIILS’ LCT course, in which they analyzed effective means for combating terrorism within the rule of law.  Particular emphasis was placed on interagency cooperation through presentations from U.S. agencies, including the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.  The International participants were joined by two active duty members of U.S. Special Forces.

The LCT course is designed for military officers and civilian officials who are, or plan to be, involved with combating terrorism through law enforcement or military means.  The curriculum covers the international law that applies to combating terrorism in three contexts: internal disturbances (domestic crime); internal armed conflict (a common tactic of insurgents); and international armed conflict.

LCT participants made several field studies visits related to the course topic, including the World Trade Center site “Ground Zero” and the United Nations Headquarters in New York City.

Many of the participants expressed appreciation for the opportunities afforded by LCT for international exchange and interaction.  A Ministry of Defense advisor from Africa stated that the LCT program “has broadened my knowledge of international law and its applications in various circumstances. [Such knowledge overcomes] a tendency in Africa is to do things in the manner we think is right not necessarily in conformity with laid down international laws and regulations which most [African] countries are signatories to and have ratified.”

A battalion commander from an Asian country credited LCT with helping her to “write effective Rules of Engagement (ROE) and Rules on Use of Force (RUF) for my soldiers and explain law to them without confusing them.”

One participant said “I am grateful of the United States of America and especially to DIILS to afford us this opportunity to study in this course, to farther (sic) our knowledge of the English language and the response to terrorism.  Thank you for your kindness, it is something that I will carry with me to my country and share to my countrymen.”

For course report and sample schedule click on the following link: https://www.diils.org/resource/lct-12020-merged-finalpdf