"...If we want to reduce the terrorist threat in the long run, we need to ask a different and more fundamental question: Where does this kind of extremism thrive? Extremists are a tiny minority in any society, but they are more likely to find a sympathetic audience when the majority shares some of their anger, resentment, and fatalism. They exploit frustration and indignity, no matter what the cause -- be it chronic poverty, political oppression, or what feels like systematic exclusion from the benefits, privileges, and respect that other societies seem to enjoy. Even as we strike at al Qaeda militarily, we need to join with other nations in using diplomacy, development assistance, and international pressure to strike at the conditions that terrorists exploit..."

"...In the long run, dignity and hope are what give people reasons to resist the appeal of extremism. People who have a stake in the stability of their society, and a say in its future, are less likely to find fanaticism attractive or acceptable. Programs and policies that improve education and employment opportunities and that promote respect for basic human rights are important strategies in the struggle against terrorism..."

"...Threats to our security -- like terrorism -- can take root and grow in countries where hopelessness and lawlessness prevail. Programs and policies that help such countries become more stable and meet their people's needs are not only investments in a better future for millions of vulnerable men, women, and children. They're also investments in our own future, because we depend on responsible, capable partners in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East to fight alongside us against terrorism and other global security threats..."