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The Anti-terrorism Act


Definition of Terrorist Activity


Conspiracy, Counselling, etc. to Commit "Terrorist Activity"

The definition of "terrorist activity" includes inchoate conduct. Specifically, it includes conspiracy, attempt or threat to commit any act or omission that would fall within the definition of "terrorist activity", or being an accessory after the fact or counselling in relation to any such act or omission. 

Exception for Conduct Committed During An Armed Conflict in Accordance with International Law

The definition of "terrorist activity" specifically excludes from its ambit "an act or omission that is committed during an armed conflict and that, at the time and in the place of its commission, is in accordance with customary international law or conventional international law applicable to the conflict, or the activities undertaken by military forces of a state in the exercise of their official duties, to the extent that those activities are governed by other rules of international law." This provides certainty that such military actions, since taken in accordance with international law or governed by other rules of international law, do not constitute "terrorist activity."

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Updated to April 1, 2008.