After reading over this article on the BBC News website, I was left curious as to what other people's opinions may be on the subject. The article looks over both past and recent kidnappings of westerners by Islamist Militant groups and what payments have been made in exchange for the safe return of the hostage(s), or not in some cases.
As most people probably know by now, the US & UK (and others) have a no-concession, no-payment policy when it comes to paying ransom. However, there has been one publicly acknowledged situation of demands being met, the Swiss Government authorized reimbursing the cost of freeing two of their citizens from Mali, although it is still not known where the money was sent.
How do you all feel about ransom demands? Should the Government pay them for their safe release or not?
Personally, and I'm sure some of you may disagree with me, I would say that they shouldn't be paid. In doing so, it gives these groups an incentive to kidnap more westerners, and other nationals from around the world with the expectation of receiving payment for their release. This in turn is only going to fund their terrorism campaigns further. Of course I'm not saying I have no sympathy for those involved, or their friends and family.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-29409361 (For anyone else interested)