Kenya and the Global War on Terror: Neglecting History and Geopolitics in Approaches to Counterterrorism

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between Kenya and the Global War on Terror (GWOT) insofar as it relates to national politics, regional security, and the international community. The author first examines the historical context of Kenya's relationship with terrorism on a domestic level, then offers a profile for past and future perpetrators, and lastly explains the reasons that Kenya is a common and attractive target to terrorists. Specifically analyzing criminological and root cause theories while taking into account inherent policy flaws, the author seeks to offer insight into the importance of Kenya’s anti-terrorism strategy in maintaining global security.