International Good Practices on Addressing and Preventing KFR

Kidnapping for ransom is a growing threat, and States in northern, eastern and Sahel regions of Africa, in particular, are witnessing a rise in KFR incidents that could fund terrorist organizations. In order to help address the threat, the UNCCT has launched a project on building capacity to address and prevent KFR through the promotion and effective implementation of international good practices.

A capacity building workshop was convened in Addis Ababa for Government officials from East African States on 28 - 29 June 2016, to deliver a programmatic programme for law enforcement officials and hostage incident responders on skills, techniques and strategies related to hostage recovery and non-payment of ransoms.

The sessions focused on key practical issues, such as terrorist KFR trends and case studies, principles of hostage incident management, stakeholder cooperation, family liaison, the role of media, principles of communication with kidnappers, legal aspects, involvement of third parties (interpreters, intermediaries), government perspectives, NGO perspectives, and post-incident hostage reintegration issues. Additional workshops are to be organized, including for NGOs, for States in North and West Africa.