The Kidnapping Business is Booming

By some estimates there are up to six Americans being held hostage by kidnappers somewhere in the world on any given day. Kidnappers go after easy targets. They don’t want to draw attention to themselves.

Effective ransom negotiation involves psychological insight, effective communication and perfect timing. In the case of international negotiations, which present complicated legal issues that can actually make ransom payments illegal, specialized knowledge of policies outlined by a vNational Security Presidential Directive is required.

Kidnappings abroad are more common but domestic victims are often in more serious danger. Kidnap and ransom insurance is recommended for North American executives and those close to them. However the incentive structure of K&R policies is problematic. Insurers want to negotiate the lowest possible ransom. Most families and companies do not know they can bring in their own negotiator to resolve these situations. A fear-driven, reactive approach that allows the kidnappers to dictate the process will almost always bring about negative consequences. The authors say that a systematic approach by a seasoned negotiator is the best way to bring about a positive result.