Definition of watch list

The phrase "watch list" originated in the aviation industry in the mid-twentieth century. It refers to a list of individuals or entities that may pose a security threat and require heightened scrutiny during airport security checks. The concept of watch lists arose after several high-profile aviation-related incidents, such as the hijacking of American Airlines Flight 1 in 1961 and the Munich Olympics tragedy in 1972, where terrorists used commercial flights to carry out their nefarious activities. In response to these incidents, aviation authorities created databases of individuals and organizations that had raised alarm bells, due to their potential links to terrorism, espionage, or other criminal activities. These databases served as a watchlist, monitoring closely anyone on them during airport security checks. Over the years, the term "watch list" has expanded beyond the aviation industry, commonly appearing in many sectors, including finance, law enforcement, and immigration. Its usage has become associated with national security operations aimed at identifying individuals or organizations that may pose security risks. In summary, the term "watch list" denotes a collection of individuals or entities subjected to heightened scrutiny due to possible security risks, originating from the aviation industry as an essential response measure to terrorist activities.