Mickey Bergman: What difference do hostage negotiators make?
Jun 4, 2024
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Sarah Montague interviews Mickey Bergman, a seasoned hostage negotiator. They discuss the role of negotiators in securing the release of kidnapped Americans and the challenges they face dealing with criminals, political actors, or governments abroad.
Hostage negotiators play a crucial role in resolving kidnappings by criminals or governments.
Canada is focusing on meeting defense spending targets to enhance military capabilities and address security threats.
Deep dives
Canada's Defense Spending and NATO Commitment
Canada's Minister of Defense, Bill Blair, discusses Canada's defense spending and NATO commitment. Blair addresses the criticism of failing to meet the 2% of GDP target for defense spending. He highlights Canada's increased defense investments, nearing the target, and emphasizes the country's responsibility to its allies and sovereignty.
Deteriorating Military Capability and Investments
The podcast delves into Canada's military capability challenges, including dwindling personnel numbers and aging equipment. Minister Blair refutes the claims of lackadaisical defense approaches, citing tripled defense spending under their government. He outlines investments in new naval frigates, fighter aircraft, and other military capabilities, aiming to surpass the 2% target.
Arctic Security and International Relations
Blair discusses the security threats in the Arctic region posed by Russia and China. He emphasizes the need for Canada to strengthen defense infrastructure in the Arctic, highlighting investments in satellite stations and support hubs. Blair stresses collaborative efforts with NATO allies to maintain Arctic peace and deter potential conflicts in the region.
Sarah Montague speaks to hostage negotiator Mickey Bergman, who has spent much of the last two decades working behind the scenes to help negotiate the release of Americans kidnapped or detained abroad – either by criminals, political actors or governments. What difference do such “fringe diplomats” make? Are they a help or a hindrance?
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