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Russians find force to be most effective weapon against terrorism

MOSCOW, August 30 (RIA Novosti) - Russians consider the use of force to be the most effective way of countering international terrorism, and 33% said pre-emptive strikes on terrorist bases were a necessity, according to a recent public opinion survey.

In a report released by Romir Monitoring ahead of September 1, marking one year since the school siege in Beslan, survey respondents were free to choose several answers from a list, which is why the percentages do not equal 100%.

Thirty-eight percent of respondents said special services should more accurately and actively investigate the whereabouts and plans of terrorists. Another 35% said force should be applied internationally in the fight against terrorism.

Thirty-two percent said security on the national borders should be raised, and 22% said security should be heightened at facilities that may be potential targets for terrorists.

Only 18% of respondents favored limitations on extremist organizations. Fifteen percent said immigration should be restricted for people coming from countries where terrorist organizations are based.

Fourteen percent said efforts to reduce poverty and defend human rights in third-world countries would be the most effective way to fight terrorism.

Six percent advocated negotiations with terrorist leaders, and another six percent spoke for broader cooperation with the moderate forces in eastern countries.

ROMIR's report is based on a survey of 1,600 adults in over 100 cities and towns in Russia.