Towards effective regional responses to the phenomenon of foreign fighters: The OSCE toolbox

Abstract

The phenomenon of foreign fighters is not new to OSCE participating States, although the current conflicts in Syria and Iraq have worsened it to the point where it is now perceived as constituting a serious threat to their national security. As a response, the OSCE has started systematic canvassing aimed at mapping out the OSCE-wide perspective on the phenomenon, in order to foster focused solutions. The comprehensive framework towards coherent and sustained actions in preventing and combatting terrorism based on an ‘all-encompassing approach’ to countering terrorism, which the organization has set up over the years, constitutes the blueprint against which such solutions are envisaged. It is crystallised in the OSCE 2012 Consolidated Framework for the Fight against Terrorism that contains a rule-of-law based toolbox putting forward ready-made responses to be adapted and tailored to the specific terrorist threats. OSCE executive structures are playing a decisive role in facilitating such adaptation to the threat posed by foreign fighters. This chapter provides an overview of the measures undertaken by the OSCE in responding to the phenomenon of foreign fighters taking part in hostilities within and outside the OSCE area. It also reflects on the possible role of the organisation-as the largest United Nations Charter Chapter VIII regional organisation-to act as a regional platform for sharing good practice, information, and challenges on foreign fighters in synergy with efforts being conducted by other international and regional actors.