In this thesis, I examine how the securitization theory can explain the acceptance of bills that are expected to limit the threat of returning foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) by the Dutch...Show moreIn this thesis, I examine how the securitization theory can explain the acceptance of bills that are expected to limit the threat of returning foreign terrorist fighters (FTFs) by the Dutch parliament. These bills limit the freedom of movement and privacy of Dutch FTFs and make the prosecution of suspected FTFs easier. I conducted a critical discourse analysis on a single case study to have an in-depth look at the relation between discourse and social practices. By examining statements made by influential politicians in debates in the Second Chamber, and by focusing on robust discourse that uses a war-narrative, implies “othering”, and makes assumptions about the threat and incentives of FTFs, it can be concluded that the response to FTFs in the Netherlands has been securitized. By labeling FTFs as an existential threat to society, influential politicians create a sense of duty for parliamentarians to accept legislation that is expected to limit this threat to protect the citizens. Instead of taking into consideration the real threat Dutch FTFs pose, the acceptance of the bills has been based on a socially constructed threat perspective of FTFs, which can limit the effectiveness of the legislation and infringe upon human rights.Show less
The use of chemical weapons during the Syrian civil war, has led many scholars to question if and how the chemical weapons taboo is being upheld. The main chemicals used in chemical attacks, have...Show moreThe use of chemical weapons during the Syrian civil war, has led many scholars to question if and how the chemical weapons taboo is being upheld. The main chemicals used in chemical attacks, have been sarin, a nerve agent, and chlorine, a toxic chemical. This thesis analyses how the international community, conceptualized as the United Nations Security Council, has upheld the taboo through their discourse and action and seeks to determine if both chemicals have been upheld to the same standard or if there is a discrepancy between them. The analysis shows that the taboo has been upheld for both chlorine and sarin, however there are specific nuances that complicate the conclusion.Show less
Nation-states are increasingly making use of the cyberspace to conduct hostile cyberoperations. To date, scholars have highlighted why the cyberspace offers a unique and advantageous new...Show moreNation-states are increasingly making use of the cyberspace to conduct hostile cyberoperations. To date, scholars have highlighted why the cyberspace offers a unique and advantageous new battleground for states, but fail to provide a unified theoretical explanation on how and why states employ the new cyberdomain in their war toolbox. This study aims to contribute to answer part of the “why” states want to make use of the cyberspace; by explaining why differences exist between the adopted strategic motives of China, Iran and Russia in the cyberspace. To investigate this, the foreign policy goals of these nation-states were identified first. Then, by analyzing 243 cyberattacks and classifying the attacks in an own built database, it was tested which strategic motive underlays a nation-state more compared to the other motives. It is found that China is mostly preoccupied with stealing confidential records and theft of intellectual property, to boost its innovation-based economy and exert unwarranted influence over other countries. Iran does not follow a specific strategic motive since many cyberattacks fail, and thus the true strategic motive remains unclear. Lastly, Russia uses the cyberspace to manipulate by spreading disinformation or influence elections, to boost its position as regional power and reinstalling its position as world power.Show less
This research paper aims to apply the population centric counterinsurgency strategy developed from the Western experiences with insurgencies to the case of Kashmir in the Global South. It is found...Show moreThis research paper aims to apply the population centric counterinsurgency strategy developed from the Western experiences with insurgencies to the case of Kashmir in the Global South. It is found that the counterinsurgency in Kashmir qualifies as people-centric to a large extent with attention given to people’s needs by conducting elections, addressing root causes of insurgencies, gaining legitimacy through provision of incentives and securing civilians through use of force. It is also found that the conduction of elections which is deemed as a successful people-centric strategy to gain legitimacy only applies to certain extent in Kashmir as the discontentment still prevails with demands of more autonomy. This research further explores the paradox of use of force in a people-centric approach with the human right violation claims on the army. By applying a theory based on Western experiences, this paper helps gain theoretical insights and lessons from the Indian counterinsurgency campaign, hence adding to the literature on irregular warfare.Show less
