Appendix 1 - Some Definitions

Kidnapping: Forced capture and detention for the specific purpose of obtaining some sort of payment (or political aim) from them, their organisation or a Government. Release and safety are usually dependent of certain criteria being met. The cause may be political in nature, economic (extortion) or ransom. Because of the negotiation skills needed in this, a specialist will probably be needed.

Hostage-taking: This is more in a situation of siege, where the abductors, have taken a person(s) as part of their strategy for escape.

Abduction: This is the forced taking of a person(s) but with no demand made (e.g. young men can be forced into the army). With no demand there may be another reason, often political statements, where examples of people are made. Very serious – response may be only to give high level media coverage. It may also require negotiation with advocacy groups and human rights groups.