The terror attacks that have struck Europe have come with a notable exception. Italy has not had a major terrorist attack since the 1980s. 

In some ways, the distinction reflects Italy’s different realities. A smaller share of its population is Muslim than in Germany, Britain, or France. But how Italy approaches terrorism also matters: It is using the lessons it learned in tackling the Mafia. That means an attentive, no-nonsense approach. Yet it also involves an important shift in mind-set.

Terrorism aims to present a terrifying picture. During my time as a reporter in Pakistan, however, it became clear that it is also just an industry. It tempts young men with no job prospects. It brings wealth and influence to local bosses. The Osama bin Ladens of today are in some respects the Al Capones of the past. That doesn’t diminish the challenge, but it can change how we see terror, and it can also help in correctly diagnosing the deeper problems and solutions.