ABSTRACT
This discussion paper examines the extent of the threat posed by foreign fighters from a border management perspective within the scope of the Five Eyes Treaty (FVEY) member states. It examines the academic and legislative definition of the term ‘foreign fighters’. A comparison between the operational definitions derived from the relevant FVEY member state legislations and UN resolution 2178 is also undertaken. The aim is to highlight any discrepancies between the above-stated definitions and examine any debates within the existing scholarship in relation to the utility of its shared meaning. The current border management powers and strategies available under FVEY member state jurisdictions to counter and disrupt the movement of foreign fighters are then examined. This includes entry refusal/visa cancellation powers, passport refusal/revocation powers, biometrics data and intelligence sharing agreements. The aim is to assess the adequacy of those strategies in order to establish gaps, downfalls as well as transferable policies.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.