German Perceptions on the “War Against Terrorism” in a Historical Perspective

To combat terrorism effectively it will be crucial in the German view to preserve the broad international coalition established in the wake of 11 September. Fighting terrorism should not be equated with countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction unless clear evidence demonstrates the involvement of states in question. In this case, the United Nations will have to play a crucial role in the findings and in the decision-making. Germany ‘s commitment to multilateralism will remain a central guiding line of its foreign policy.