Freakonomics Radio 432. When Your Safety Becomes My Danger
Sep 24, 2020
Anya Shortland, an economist focused on criminal markets, is joined by Gretchen Peters, an expert on illicit networks in conflict zones, and Steve Yon, a construction superintendent with extensive experience in Afghanistan. They discuss the heartbreaking implications of U.S. companies paying the Taliban for protection, which inadvertently funds attacks on soldiers. The conversation delves into the ethical dilemmas of reconstruction efforts, the challenges of navigating local economies, and the emotional toll on families affected by the ongoing conflict.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Taliban's Protection Racket
- A construction manager in Afghanistan received a call about the Taliban firing RPGs at a project.
- The Taliban commander clarified they intentionally missed but demanded overdue protection payments.
The Protection Money Dilemma
- Paying protection money creates a dangerous dilemma in conflict zones.
- Companies face threats if they don't pay, but paying may endanger others, like U.S. military personnel.
Kidnapping as a Last Resort
- Kidnapping is a rare, last resort in protection rackets.
- Regular protection payments incentivize non-violence and maintain a 'tricky market' equilibrium.