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If I should ever be captured, I want no negotiation - and…

“If I should ever be captured, I want no negotiation - and if I should request a negotiation from captivity they should consider that a sign of duress.” quote by Henry A. Kissinger
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“If I should ever be captured, I want no negotiation - and if I should request a negotiation from captivity they should consider that a sign of duress.”

Henry A. Kissinger

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Captivity should not be used to force negotiations; any request from a captive signals duress.

In simple terms: Requests from captives indicate duress.

Key Takeaway

Never negotiate under duress.

Themes

ethics conflict law power human rights

Mood

cautious serious

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • hostage crises
  • prisoner of war negotiations
  • diplomatic talks

Key Concepts

coercion negotiation tactics international law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can negotiators verify genuine consent?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse?
A Different Perspective

Even under duress, some parties may feign compliance, complicating assessments.

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