Significant Kidnappings
by Job/Role for 2014

The charts show significant kidnappings by the job/role of hostages taken in 2014. It covers incidents tracked in the ICD Hostage Component for 2014 as of 20 Jan. 2015.

A total of 95 significant kidnappings occurred in the period. Corporate employees retained the lead at 35% (33). Journalists came in second at 9% (9). NGO and Diplomat tied for third at 8% (8). Students came in fourth at 6% (6). In 7% (7) of the incidents, the job/role was unknown.

Numbers are expected to continue along these lines in 2015 with the potential for significant increases for diplomats, NGOs, UN staff and tourists.

Methodology Note:
Significant kidnappings typically include those conducted or likely conducted by terrorist or rebel groups of individuals who fall outside of local national targets. They are kidnappings that are generally more complex and involve additional resources and planning due to the nature of the nationality of the victim or the prominence of his or her employer. This analysis only looked at kidnappings that occurred during the period and not the total number of hostages still being held in these countries. Mass kidnapping of 25 or more people were not counted. This report also does not reflect hostages who have been taken but not publicly acknowledged as being kidnapped. Actual kidnapping numbers are usually higher then shown here as a result. Full records for all kidnappings used in this chart are in the ICD Hostage Component.

The IntelCenter Database (ICD) allows users to easily view up-to-the-minute charts tracking hostage job/role, nationality, location of kidnapping and many other metrics related to terrorist and rebel kidnappings. As of 20 Jan. 2015, the ICD has detailed records on more than 370 hostages. IntelCenter also provides analytical support services on terrorist and rebel messaging efforts.

Reporting and original source materials are contained in the IntelCenter Database (ICD). Sign up for a free 10-day trial of the ICD and see additional details by clicking here. IntelCenter has available similar analysis for other groups and subjects. For more information, to schedule an online WebEx demo or to discuss how IntelCenter can assist with your needs, email info@intelcenter.com or call 800-719-8750.