Confronting toxic terrorism in the Singapore context.

Abstract

We are living in a new age of terrorism. The threat of a chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) 9/11 is very real. This dissertation analyses the repercussions of a successful CBRN attack on a small but dynamic country like Singapore. The argument centres around the "wipe-out" effect on the existing and upcoming business districts - and likely beyond these areas - in Singapore, which is a vibrant financial hub. This paper assesses the possible modes and ramifications of a CBRN attack on this tiny republic, compared with a much bigger country like the United States. This paper also probes how the Singapore authorities have built their competency to prevent a CBRN attack as well as deal with its aftermath. Finally, this paper explores how a mass-casualty attack of an unconventional nature will affect the country in terms of being a small nation with banking and financial services forming one of its key sectors. Singapore, with its dense population and limited landmass, faces a greater challenge posed by some terrorist groups that have long-standing and documented ambitions to develop CBRN capabilities for their extreme killing potential as well as profound psychological impact.