Deep Dish on Global Affairs
This Era of Hostage Diplomacy Requires New Answers
Nov 9, 2023
This podcast explores the rise of hostage-taking and hostage diplomacy, discussing the shift in methods and the emergence of autocratic states practicing it. It also delves into the measures taken in response to hostage situations, the UN Convention Against the Taking of Hostages, US policy on concessions to terrorists, and the motivations, patterns, and solutions related to hostage diplomacy.
35:02
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Quick takeaways
- Hostage-taking tactics have evolved over time, with armed groups now combining publicity-seeking tactics with the security of kidnapping.
- The 'no concessions' policy followed by the U.S. government in hostage situations often relies on collective action and faces challenges in coordination among different countries and allies.
Deep dives
Historical Context of Hostage-Taking
Hostage-taking and hostage diplomacy have been practiced throughout history as a means to achieve political or diplomatic goals. The use of hostages has evolved over time, with armed groups in the 1970s frequently hijacking airplanes and holding embassies hostage. In the 1980s, armed groups shifted towards kidnapping individuals and taking them to unknown locations. In recent decades, portable internet devices have allowed armed groups to combine publicity-seeking tactics with the security of kidnapping. Hostage-taking has also shifted from surreptitious kidnapping to hostage diplomacy, where autocratic states hold foreigners hostage using their criminal justice system.
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