The threat of personal harm and destruction from terrorist attacks is nowhere near as great as in Arab nations. However, are counter-terrorism laws in the Arab world formulated and enforced to protect or oppress? Colonialism, Neo-Colonialism, and Anti-Terrorism Law in the Arab World examines the relationship between Western influence and counter-terrorism law, focusing on the Arab world, which is, on the one hand, a hostile producer of terrorist organizations, and on the other, a leader in countering 'terrorism'. With case studies of Egypt and Tunisia, Alzubairi traces the colonial roots of the use of coercion and extra-legal measures to protect the ruling order, which are now justified in both the West and the Arab world in the name of counter-terrorism. Colonialism, Neo-Colonialism, and Anti-Terrorism Law in the Arab World provides important lessons for counter-terrorism, not just in these countries but also elsewhere in the world.

‘An excellent examination of the neglected but vital subject of counter-terrorism in the Arab world and an essential text in the field of comparative counter-terrorism. A must read for all those interested in understanding the effects of both counter-terrorism and colonialism in both Egypt and Tunisia.'

Kent Roach - Prichard Wilson Chair in Law and Public Policy, University of Toronto, author of Comparative Counter-Terrorism

‘This is an extremely timely and cogent investigation into the origins, development and current deployment of counter-terrorism law and policy in Egypt and Tunisia. The application of colonial and neo-colonial lenses to Arab states' counter-terrorism legislation underlies a compelling account of the ways in which these current laws and practices fit into today's global power dynamics.'

Lynn Welchman - School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London

‘Overall, Alzubairi’s study is certainly a remarkable scholarly work that adds crucial value to our knowledge of the genesis and genealogy of antiterrorism and counterterrorism in the Global South and the Arabic Middle East … which represents a premium contribution to the body of literature in the fields of terrorism and Middle Eastern studies.’

Ahmed M. Abozaid Source: Terrorism & Political Violence