11 September: Legitimizing Intelligence?

In: International relations: the journal of the David Davies Memorial Institute of International Studies, Band 16, Heft 2, S. 227-241

Abstract

Intelligence has evolved principally as the targeting of other states, & has thus posed its own security dilemma: the knowledge it produces encourages more responsible governmental behavior, while its methods of secret collection reinforce inter-governmental antagonism or distrust. 11 September & the counter-terrorism following it have, however, accentuated the post-cold war trend to a new intelligence paradigm: targeting 'non-state', 'partial state' or 'rogue-state' entities rather than 'decent' states; serving 'good causes' rather than competitive national advantage; supporting multinational action in actions with international endorsement. As such it has gained increased legitimacy. More positive action is now needed to develop formal international intelligence machinery, not in collection but in analysis & assessment, as part of an extended security system; & to encourage objective intelligence as an input to national policy-making as a world standard of good governance. A necessary counterpoint is more restraint on intrusive intelligence collection against 'decent' cooperating states. [Copyright 2002 Sage Publications Ltd.]