Ministerie van Justitie

EU strategy on counterterrorism

Progress on counterterrorism was made during the British presidency of the EU in the second half of 2005. First, the EU adopted a strategy on counterterrorism, clearly setting out its objectives and priorities and the part to be played by the EU.
In recent years, the EU has undertaken many counterterrorism measures, ranging from legislation and action plans to policy instruments and practical steps. They are set out in the EU Action Plan, which contains more than 150 measures and is regularly updated.
This Action Plan is useful and necessary for monitoring progress, but does not offer a clear structure or strategy. Clarity is important for everyone, including ordinary citizens, who need to be informed about the EU’s counterterrorism measures.
The strategy therefore includes a clear overview of the decision-making and coordination structures. Coordinating the implementation of measures and the organisations concerned will improve the effectiveness of counterterrorism. The EU strategy rests on four pillars: "prevent, protect, pursue, respond". Each pillar contains measures that are summarised in the Action Plan.