On 15 September 2025, the Tactics Institute for Security & Counter Terrorism hosted a landmark conference in Rome on “Counter Terrorism Strategies in the Age of Artificial Intelligence in Europe.” Experts and practitioners examined how AI is reshaping counterterrorism approaches and strengthening security efforts across Europe.
The distinguished speakers Gianni Baretta, Flavio Turrino, and Antonio Pepe shared in-depth insights into the cutting-edge technologies, policy challenges, and ethical considerations surrounding AI’s deployment in the fight against terrorism.
In his opening remarks, Gianni Baretta emphasized the urgency of adapting counterterrorism strategies to the rapid advancements in AI technology. He highlighted how AI-powered systems have revolutionized intelligence gathering and threat detection, allowing authorities to analyze massive datasets for unusual patterns indicative of terrorist activities. Baretta emphasized that while AI provides unprecedented analytical capabilities, it must be supported by robust legal frameworks and international cooperation to prevent misuse and protect fundamental human rights.
Flavio Turrino supplemented this perspective with his experience in law enforcement and security operations. He explained that AI tools help to preempt terrorist plots through predictive analytics that assess the risk profile of individuals and groups based on behavioral data, travel patterns, and communication intercepts. Turrino also noted the challenges posed by the evolving nature of terrorist tactics, which increasingly exploit encrypted platforms and anonymous digital channels to evade detection. He advocated for a balanced approach combining AI innovation with traditional investigative techniques and enhanced cross-border information sharing.
Antonio Pepe, the third speaker, addressed the ethical dilemmas and policy questions raised by the increasing use of AI in counterterrorism. He stressed that AI systems must be transparent and accountable, avoiding biases that could lead to wrongful profiling or infringement of privacy rights. Pepe urged policymakers to develop clear standards governing AI deployment, including strict oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with European Union data protection laws and human rights conventions.
Throughout the conference, the dialogue revealed both immense opportunities and significant risks associated with integrating AI into Europe’s counterterrorism infrastructure. On the practical side, AI’s capacity to rapidly analyze images, videos, social media content, and other data streams enhances the early identification of radicalization and recruitment activities. Machine learning algorithms can flag suspicious transactions and financial flows that fund terrorist networks, thus strengthening anti-money laundering (AML) efforts. Moreover, AI-driven simulations aid security agencies in scenario planning and response coordination, improving preparedness against multifaceted terrorist threats.
The experts also cautioned about technological limitations and unintended consequences. Overreliance on AI may result in false positives and distract resources from nuanced human judgment. There is also the concern that terrorist groups could exploit AI themselves, employing sophisticated cyberattacks or manipulating automated systems to their advantage. These emerging challenges require continuous research and international partnerships to develop resilient and adaptable counterterrorism strategies.
Significantly, the event underscored the need for harmonized European policies on AI governance in security contexts. Current disparities in national regulations and intelligence sharing frameworks hinder unified responses to transnational terrorism. The speakers advocated for EU-level initiatives to standardize ethical guidelines, data-sharing protocols, and investment in AI research tailored to security objectives. They emphasized the importance of involving multidisciplinary experts, including technologists, legal scholars, human rights advocates, and frontline security personnel, in policymaking processes.
The conference also addressed public trust and legitimacy, crucial factors for the effective implementation of AI-enabled counterterrorism measures. Transparent communication with citizens about how AI tools are used, data is handled, and safeguards are enforced can mitigate fears of government overreach or mass surveillance. Dialogue with civil society organizations can foster accountability and promote the ethical deployment of surveillance technologies in compliance with democratic values.
The Tactics Institute reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a platform for cutting-edge research and policy dialogue on the intersection of technology and security. The Institute pledged to continue facilitating collaborative efforts that ensure AI advances contribute positively to public safety while upholding Europe’s legal and ethical standards.
This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of counterterrorism approaches across Europe. By bringing together expert voices from diverse fields to critically examine AI’s potential and pitfalls, the Tactics Institute has laid the groundwork for more informed, balanced, and effective security policies in the digital age. The insights shared by Gianni Baretta, Flavio Turrino, and Antonio Pepe illuminate pathways for governments, security agencies, and international organizations to leverage AI responsibly and innovatively in safeguarding European societies from terrorism.
