Episode 9: Speaking out in a time of kidnapping

In August 2002, the threat to MSF becomes a reality and another Coordinator, a Dutch national, is kidnapped in Dagestan. The organisation is once again faced with the dilemma whether it should speak out in the media about the kidnapping or not. MSF opts to keep quiet at first, but as the weeks turn into months and the MSF Coordinator is still not released, MSF starts questioning whether it should take active steps to secure the hostage’s release by publicly pointing out a government’s responsibilities, negligence, or even complicity when a kidnapping occurs on its soil, or should it not enter into these conversations to avoid the potential for a government to dig in its heels? Tensions are running high, especially between MSF, the Dutch authorities and the family of the hostage, and some feel the structures within the organisation are not helping the situation.

Om Podcasten

Welcome to Everyday Emergency, a podcast by Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF). We bring you true stories and expert insight from people on the frontline of humanitarian events. From the conflicts that hit the headlines to underreported crises, we’ll be talking to our medical, logistical and humanitarian staff about working to save lives in some of the world's most challenging places. If you would like to support our life-saving work, visit msf.org.uk to make a donation or get involved.