GLOBALIZATION, CRISIS AND DISCOURSE ON TERRORISM

Abstract

In this paper, I examine the discourse on terrorism in the context of contemporary globalization trends. The goal is to test the validity of the hypothesis that the evolving geopolitical landscape is providing an opportunity to expand and deepen the understanding of the concept of “state terrorism.” Bearing in mind the wide implementation of the mechanisms of securitization by states and other actors of international relations aimed at gaining support in public opinion, this paper emphasizes the need to research factual knowledge in place of the securitization policy agenda. The issue stems from manipulative qualifications that fail to establish the truth. The problem lies in qualifications not acquired through procedures that lead to an objective view of reality. Prejudicially selected facts and discourse-contextualized information are postulated as true to support the pre-set qualifications, thus legitimizing strategic goals and justifying certain methods and means of further actions. The goal of this work is to determine potential challenges and important elements that may arise in the process of rational decision-making regarding the promotion of the discourse on terrorism. In the context of the defined problem, this paper first indicates some theoretical models of interpretation of globalization and terrorism, then presents the concept of discourse, and then explores the concept of crisis. The basic method applied in the research is functional analysis, while content analysis and discourse analysis are operational methods. The crisis of globalization, as a pivotal global process, unequivocally reveals key aspects that encompass our research focus. It compels us to critically examine the characteristics of theorizing about today’s international environment, and consequently, rational decision-making. The obtained results show that globalization flows have expanded the possibilities of terrorist activity due to the multidimensional process of global interdependence (overcoming the time and space component as a key feature of globalization), the universalization of values, the changed character and role of mass and new media, and the enormous progress and expansion of the application of new information technologies. It is concluded that the actualization of the phrase state terrorism is particularly noticeable in the context of armed conflicts in Ukraine. The results we have gathered lay a solid foundation for concluding that the discourse surrounding the armed conflict in Ukraine heralds profound changes on the global stage. This conflict has reshaped the factors that influence the trends in globalization, creating a landscape marked by significant upheaval and realignment of geopolitical and security trends. The key conclusion that was drawn is that overcoming the problem of discourse requires the process of rational decision-making, and, thus, effective setting up and action in an international environment. The overwhelming impression, however, is that the stated setting is difficult to implement in decision-making practice due to the dominant influence of a series of supranational mechanisms, which makes this topic relevant for more in-depth research.