The Madrid effect was a huge encouragement to Al Qaeda.
The politically correct atmosphere of the EU is an open invitation to terrorism because they see it as an opening to influence public policy.
I listened to a terror expect on television who predicts there will be more terror attacks in Europe because of this politically correct attitude.  Terrorists have already made gains in Europe......

1 In 4 British Muslims Sympathize with Bombers

When asked whether or not Muslim respondents agreed or disagreed with Tony Blair's description of the ideas and ideology of the London bombers as "perverted and poisonous" a substantial minority, 26 per cent, are reluctant to be so dismissive. And six percent insisted the bombings were fully justified.
Source Article: Telegraph UK

When the press insists on painting barbaric terrorists as "freedom fighters," it is no wonder that the outrage and conviction to fight global terrorism is weakened. As in the days of Noah, terror has filled much of the world.  A few men can completely terrorize a large city...country at large.  Fear is the force of terrorism ....and it has proven to be effective in many cases.
Spain has buckled to the demands of terrorists.  I expect France would also buckle.