IntroductionThere are many different definitions of terrorism. What is terrorism? How do we define it? Why is one person's terrorist another person's freedom fighter? These are just some of the questions the world faces daily. The international community faces many challenges when it comes to defining terrorism and what it constitutes. This article will explore the challenges researchers face when it comes to qualifying terrorism and discuss potential ways to properly define it. Challenges in Defining Terrorism Finding an appropriate and well-accepted definition of what constitutes terrorism is extremely difficult. Scholars, experts, and ordinary citizens face many challenges when it comes to defining terrorism and terrorists. The different backgrounds and cultures of those who define terrorism, in addition to different histories, are just one of the many challenges facing those who wish to define terrorism. Additionally, labeling a group or individual a terrorist could be considered offensive, especially in today's politically correct environment, and potentially harmful to those in the political arena. However, on the other hand, labeling someone a terrorist can also serve a political purpose, as in propaganda for a war effort, or to help define an enemy. However, the main problem with not having a widely accepted definition of terrorism is that “it is impossible to formulate or enforce international agreements against terrorism” (Ganor, 300). The problem with the definitions that exist is that they are so numerous and vary so widely that it is difficult to determine which is most accurate. Each state, nation and government has its own definition. The acc...... middle of document ...... was proposed by James Rinehart who believes that "the definition must focus on the acts of terrorists, not simply label the actors and must have an "agenda political: a specific set of demands and demands that are of the utmost importance to actors prepared to resort to terror” (14). Finally, Ganz suggests that we limit the definition to include only non-combatant civilians, consistent with the Geneva Conventions. Its definition is as follows: “Terrorism is the international use, or threat of use, of violence against civilians or against civilian targets in order to achieve political objectives” (294). Conclusion There will always be confusion in the definition of terrorism as long as prejudices and stereotypes persist. . As long as we can move away from stereotypes and focus on real research, then we can begin to understand the full complexity of terrorism and what it entails...