Tom Quiggin

Why talk about border intelligence? Despite much discussion concerning the decline of the influence of the state, the reality is that the state can chose to exercise significant control over its territory. Borders still exist and the state can exercise its influence when it chooses. In order to cross a border into a state, (physically... 

Ideology matters. In many countries, including Canada, you can face state sponsored sanctions if you are believed to “espouse” the ideology of, for example, al Qaeda. But what is the ideology of al Qaeda? Do those who make such observations and accusations understand this issue themselves? When studying a terrorist group,... 

Does academic literature have an effect on national security and the lives of individuals? Should academics consider the possible impact that their writings may have if they are writing on matters of terrorism, intelligence or national security? The answer is yes. Words matter. Recent proceedings in Federal Court have drawn... 

Urban legends or myths tend to grow up around groups or individuals that are in the news. Al Qaeda is no different. Many “facts” about al Qaeda are often shown to be little more than urban legends that have developed because of a lack of actual knowledge. Identifying and exposing such myths is a worthwhile exercise... 

The capture of the man alleged to be the senior military commander of the Taliban raises more questions than it answers. On the surface, this would appear to be a good news story about the capture of a leading “bad guy” in the ongoing Afghanistan conflict. Below the surface, however, things are less certain. Several other possibilities...