Terrorism is a denial of democracy and of human rights, which are at the very core of the OSCE. No country in the OSCE area or beyond is immune to the threat of terrorism: it is real, pervasive and multifaceted, but it should be carefully assessed to ensure that it is neither exaggerated nor minimized. The state has the obligation and primary responsibility to prevent and combat terrorism, as well as to respect and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms. However, the state needs to draw on the support of society in general, including civil society and businesses, to successfully counter this phenomenon.