The Hindu Editorial Analysis
7 May 2025
The fragmentation in the global fight against terror
(Source – The Hindu, National Edition – Page No. – 08)
Topic: GS 2: International Relations | Security Challenges | Global Terror Networks and India’s Foreign Policy
Context
- The recent terrorist attack in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, which killed Chinese engineers, and the Pulwama anniversary have renewed global focus on terrorism.
- However, the international response to terrorism remains fragmented, with differential standards, selective outrage, and geopolitical interests dictating actions rather than principle.
- The article argues that this lack of collective global will weakens efforts to combat terrorism effectively.
Introduction
Terrorism is a global threat—but the global response is anything but unified.
From “good terrorists vs bad terrorists” narratives to selective condemnations, the international fight against terror is fractured.
India, as one of the most affected nations, must not only defend its interests but lead the call for a consistent, principled approach.
Double Standards in Global Anti-Terrorism Approach
1. The “Your vs My Terrorist” Hypocrisy
- Some countries condemn terrorist acts while shielding those responsible when political interests align, e.g., Pakistan-based terror groups being overlooked.
- Western nations’ inconsistent stance—e.g., support for Pakistan despite evidence of safe havens—undermines the cause.
2. Weak Global Mechanisms
- The UN Security Council’s inaction (e.g., China blocking designations of terrorists) and lack of enforcement on state sponsors like Pakistan showcase institutional limitations.
- The Global Terrorism Index and other multilateral efforts often avoid confronting root sources of terror due to diplomatic sensitivities.
India’s Strategic Concerns and Diplomatic Dilemmas
1. Pakistan’s Role and Cross-border Terror
- India remains one of the biggest victims of state-sponsored terrorism, especially from Pakistan.
- Yet, global forums hesitate to confront Islamabad directly, compromising India’s security interests.
2. From Pulwama to Gaza: Uneven Global Reactions
- While massive civilian deaths in Gaza sparked international sympathy, attacks on Indian civilians often evoke muted responses, showing bias in global empathy and media framing.
3. Limits of Bilateral Engagements
- Calls for India to “work things out” bilaterally with Pakistan overlook state complicity and delay justice.
- India’s call for accountability, not appeasement, needs global support to isolate terror-harboring nations.
The Way Forward: India’s Leadership Role
1. Reforming Global Institutions
- India must continue pushing for reform of the UNSC and FATF, ensuring that terror financing and state sponsorship are unequivocally condemned.
- A global definition of terrorism and unified sanction mechanism are urgently needed.
2. Building International Coalitions
- India should align with like-minded countries (e.g., UAE, France, Israel) to build a strong counter-terrorism bloc, independent of traditional power politics.
- Use platforms like G-20 and BRICS to raise terrorism as a human rights and development issue.
3. Consistent Foreign Policy Messaging
- India must maintain its principled stand: zero tolerance to terror, irrespective of source or target.
- Diplomatic efforts should include public narratives, media engagement, and global solidarity campaigns.
Conclusion
The fight against terrorism cannot succeed unless the world abandons selective outrage and embraces collective action.
India’s role as a victim and as a responsible global actor must translate into leadership for global unity on terror.
In a divided world, only moral clarity, legal consistency, and multilateral pressure can hold perpetrators accountable.
India must lead this charge—not just for itself, but for global peace and justice.