In this course we will undertake an examination of a range of anti-terrorism laws from around the world, emphasising those enacted since the terrorist attacks on the United States on 11 September 2001. The purpose of doing so is to compare the ways in which legal systems have sought to respond to the threat of terrorist attack and the extent to which this has challenged fundamental principles including the separation of powers and the rule of law. The jurisdictions which will receive particular focus are those of Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. However, some other countries such as Indonesia, India and the United States may usefully be considered at various stages. Particular attention will be given to the influence of bills of rights on these antiterrorism laws and activities; the co-opting of immigration law as a tool of counterterrorism; miscarriages of justice in terrorism cases; review of national security activities; and the development of new governmental policies and departments responsible for national security and counter-terrorism.

The course is an advanced course in that it analyses the intersection of several areas of law and policy. It should be of interest especially to those wishing to increase their knowledge in criminal law and other areas of public law.

The course aims to examine theoretical issues underlying law's role in combating terrorism, and anti-terrorism law and counter-terrorism activities from a comparative perspective. It also aims to provide an understanding of the the intersection of distinct legal areas within the locus of counter-terrorism law.

At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to: