EWI is using its position as a trusted convener and an innovator to bring together influential individuals on official and semi-official levels to stimulate fresh thinking on more effective counterterrorism policies.

There is a near-universal consensus that governments must work more effectively to counter terrorism and protect civilians, not just from terrorists, but also from imprecise counterterrorism operations. However, there is little consensus on how they are to do so.

EWI works to build this consensus. We engage not just governments, but also the private sector to surface the best ideas to protect people, economies, and infrastructure on land, sea, air, and cyberspace.

A major hub of our activities in this area is the annual Worldwide Security Conference, which draws officials and experts from around the world to discuss all facets of counterterrorism operations and develop new, innovative strategies that ensure security from terrorism while respecting economic interests, national borders, and human rights. The conference is now in its seventh year.

The goals of EWI's counterterrorism efforts are to:

• Build a new global second track structure between the East and the West on counterterrorism.
• Provide alternative and discreet communication channels among governments and within regional and international organizations to build trust and cooperation.
• Help overcome political obstacles, mistrust and opposing perceptions that impede effective counterterrorism cooperation.
• Stimulate fresh approaches and build consensus behind more effective policies.