About Book

Function before Form: Optimising the UN's Counter-Terrorism Architecture is an independent expert assessment authored by Larry Attree for the Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights and Counter-Terrorism. The report critically examines the current state of the United Nations' counter-terrorism efforts, particularly focusing on the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT). It highlights concerns regarding the lack of oversight, transparency, and accountability within UNOCT, as well as its limited attention to human rights and prevention strategies. The report scrutinizes UNOCT's proposal for a seven-fold increase in its regular budget and the authority to make direct grants, questioning the efficacy and potential risks of such expansions. It advocates for a strategic review and reform of the UN's counter-terrorism architecture to ensure alignment with UN values and effective performance. In an era where counter-terrorism measures are under increased scrutiny for their impact on human rights and effectiveness, this report provides timely insights into the internal challenges faced by international bodies like the UN. The emphasis on transparency, accountability, and the integration of human rights into counter-terrorism strategies resonates with contemporary debates on balancing security and civil liberties. The report's call for a strategic overhaul of the UN's counter-terrorism approach is pertinent as member states and global institutions seek to enhance the legitimacy and efficacy of their security measures. Larry Attree's assessment offers a critical and necessary perspective on the UN's counter-terrorism framework. By shedding light on the structural and operational deficiencies within UNOCT, the report underscores the need for comprehensive reforms to align the UN's counter-terrorism efforts with its foundational principles of human rights and effective governance. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, UN officials, and civil society organizations advocating for accountable and rights-based counter-terrorism policies.