Paying terrorist ransoms: Frayed consensus, uneven outcomes & undue harm
| Author | Jessica Davis,Alex Wilner |
| DOI | http://doi.org/10.1177/00207020221130308 |
| Published date | 01 June 2022 |
| Date | 01 June 2022 |
| Subject Matter | Policy Brief |
Policy Brief
International Journal
2022, Vol. 77(2) 356–367
© The Author(s) 2022
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DOI: 10.1177/00207020221130308
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Paying terrorist ransoms:
Frayed consensus, uneven
outcomes & undue harm
Jessica Davisand Alex Wilner
Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Abstract
Terrorist groups are believed to be financed, in part, by ransoms paid for kidnap
victims. As part of global efforts to counter the financing of terrorism and prevent
further terrorist attacks (including more kidnappings), the international community has
attempted to implement a moratorium on the payment of ransoms. Despite a unified
stance, ransom payments to terrorist groups have continued. An exploratory review of
20 countries reveals significant variation between public statements and private
practice when it comes to ransom payments. While it is clear that states, organizations,
and individuals are paying terrorist ransoms, it is far less clear what effect this has had
on terrorism itself. A review of three case studies shows significant variation in the
relationship (or perhaps, lack thereof) between ransom payments and terrorist attacks.
These findings suggest a need for more study on the effects of ransom payments on
terrorist capabilities, and a re-assessment of existing “no-ransom”policies.
Keywords
terrorism, ransoms, terrorist financing, terrorist attacks
Terrorist groups’capabilities and strategic choices are constrained or enabled by a
number of factors, but one of the most impactful is their financial strength. A well-
financed terrorist group has far more options than a poorly financed one. Money enables
terrorist attacks and territory-expanding operations, and helps groups keep their
Corresponding author:
Jessica Davis, Carleton University, River Building, Ottawa, ON K1S 5B6, Canada.
Email: JessicaDavis@cmail.carleton.ca
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