In LCT, DIILS’ most in-demand resident course, students learn and apply the international law relevant in combating terrorism in all its forms. The goal of the course is to explore effective means for combating terrorism within the rule of law, with an emphasis on the importance of inter-agency cooperation.

Recommended Attendees:

This program is designed specifically for military officers and civilian officials who are currently, or who are expected to be, involved with combating terrorism through law enforcement or military means. The course is designed for non-lawyers, although lawyers will find the lectures and curriculum will deepen their understanding of the relevant law and the discussion of effective methods in combating terrorism will make them more effective advisors to policy-makers or law enforcement and military counter-terrorism practitioners.

Course Focus:

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the international law that applies in combating terrorism in each of its three contexts: internal disturbances (domestic crime); internal armed conflict (a common tactic of insurgents); and international armed conflict (such as against Al Qa’ida). Classroom lectures are from legal, academic, and anti- and counter-terrorism subject matter experts (including officials from the U.S. Departments of Defense, Justice, and Homeland Security) and are accompanied by extensive written curriculum. Small group realistic discussion problems and exercises provide students frequent opportunities to confirm their understanding of the applicable legal rules and to share experiences and insights with other international military officers and civilian officials on effective means for combating terrorism within the Rule of Law. Participants engage in role play applying the Rules for the Use of Force and Rules of Engagement, including participation in a video-based exercise which uses the Fire Arms Training Simulator (FATS) at the Rhode Island Air National Guard facility at Camp Fogarty. Site visits and briefings are planned with the U.S. Coast Guard (maritime security), the New York City Police Department (anti-terrorism, consequence management), and an Emergency Management Operations Center (inter-agency coordination in crisis response). During the site visits in New York City, students will stay in a city hotel, receive a tour including the World Trade Center site, and have time for other field studies activities.

LCT is approved for Expanded IMET. CTFP funding may be used if authorized.