Revisiting the Strategic Dimension of the Global War on Terror

This article revisits the Global War on Terror (GWOT) two decades after its declaration, critically assessing its strategic achievements and failures. It examines the evolution of terrorism as a threat and the shifting focus to state actors like Russia and China in a multipolar global order. We highlighted the limitations of militarised responses to terrorism, which have often resulted in regional instability, increased radicalisation, and diminished international trust. In addition, we described the strategic paradox of pursuing absolute security while neglecting socio-political root causes and explored how the GWOT shaped global military and political landscapes. Drawing on historical and strategic frameworks, the analysis reveals a mixed legacy of counter-terrorism efforts, suggesting the need for a balanced approach that integrates military action with diplomacy, economic development, and cultural understanding. The findings underscore the importance of reassessing global security strategies to address contemporary threats effectively in a fragmented and interdependent world.