In late August 2011, DIILS welcomed 22 participants from 18 countries to Naval Station Newport to attend our three-week “Legal Aspects of Combating Terrorism” (LCT) course, which addresses the multi-faceted problem of how to defeat terrorism while adhering to the rule of law.  The course is designed for military officers and civilian officials who are, or who plan to be, involved with combating terrorism through law enforcement or military means.

Topics discussed include the military response to terrorism, the law of armed conflict applicable to insurgencies and international terrorist groups, and rules of engagement.  Topics concerning the law enforcement response to terrorism include: investigation, prosecution, the involvement of organized crime; maritime security and border security; defining terrorism in law, and how interagency cooperation can enhance the fight against terrorism.

The methodology included presentations by subject matter experts and DIILS staff, case studies of current events, discussion problems, group and individual presentations. In addition, field studies trips to New York City (including a UN Combating Terrorism Committee briefing and visit to the World Trade Center site) and Boston (Kennedy Presidential Library and historic Boston sites) contributed to a holistic American experience for the participants.

This year, tropical storm Irene was an unwelcome guest, hitting Rhode Island when our LCT program was in full session.  Two members of DIILS’ Resident Course team, Ms. Dana Scott and Mr. Kevin Joeckel, ensured the safety of the participants.  They prepared the international participants for the storm and attended to their individual concerns and needs, and kept them updated on the storm through the DIILS members’ website, GlobalNET.