What is the International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (ICAT)?

The International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (ICAT) is an international agreement that was created to prevent and punish the taking of hostages. It was adopted by the United Nations in 1979 and is widely accepted as binding international law. In North Dakota, the ICAT is primarily implemented through the state’s Penal Code. It is a felony offense to willfully and unlawfully take or detain another person with the intention of using them as a means of influencing or coercing another government or public authority. Additionally, it is illegal to threaten to take a person as a hostage in order to be released from criminal liability. The ICAT also contains provisions that establish a duty to prosecute or extradite persons accused of taking hostages. Additionally, it outlines required compensation and support to families of hostages; requires governments to take all necessary steps to ensure that hostages are treated humanely; and includes provisions for international cooperation and assistance in cases of hostage-taking. Overall, the ICAT is a binding international agreement that serves to prevent and punish the taking of hostages. It affirms the rights of the hostages, their families, and all other affected persons. It also establishes a duty to prosecute or extradite persons accused of taking hostages and provides for international cooperation in cases of hostage-taking.

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What is the International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (ICAT)?

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