Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Standardized Awareness Practice Test

Which of the following best describes international terrorism?

1. Acts committed to protect national interests within borders

2. Acts intended to influence government conduct outside of US jurisdiction

3. Violent acts that occur only in urban areas

4. Criminal activities targeting only military facilities

The correct answer is: Acts intended to influence government conduct outside of US jurisdiction

International terrorism is best described as acts intended to influence government conduct outside of US jurisdiction. This definition encompasses actions that are motivated by political, social, or ideological objectives and that cross international borders to reach their goals. Such activities often aim to coerce foreign governments or populations, disrupt international relations, or incite fear on a global scale, indicating a significant impact beyond one nation's boundaries. The focus on influencing government conduct is critical, as international terrorism typically involves a broader agenda that seeks to affect changes in policy or behavior at a national or global level, which can be evident in numerous historical instances. This distinguishes it from local or domestic issues. In contrast, the other options describe scenarios that do not align with the recognized understanding of international terrorism. Protecting national interests within borders pertains more to domestic security measures; violent acts occurring only in urban areas are too narrow and ignore rural incidents; and criminal activities targeting military facilities would not encompass the broader range of actors and motivations typical of international terrorism.