After a hostage or wrongful detainee returns from captivity, they are often asked to debrief with various groups such as law enforcement to gather intelligence and information to help with a prosecution or gain understanding of the group that held them, or their employer to gather lessons learned about what happened to improve policies and procedures.
When a debrief is conducted sensitively, many former hostages and wrongful detainees have found it to be a helpful part of their healing process. It can offer a safe space to reflect on their experiences and process what they have been through. Many are pleased to be able to contribute to efforts to bring their captors to justice or help others who continue to be held.
Based on discussions with former hostages and wrongful detainees who have been through a debrief – with both positive and negative experiences – Hostage US has put together some suggestions which we feel are best practices for preparing for a debrief meeting:
- Preparation and forewarning
It is important that former hostages and wrongful detainees are properly prepared, understand the process, what to expect, its purpose and how it will happen in practice. After a prolonged period without choice, the debrief process can offer an opportunity for control and choice to return at a safe pace. Discuss the debrief process with the former hostage or wrongful detainee, allowing them the chance to give their input on each area.
- Physical environment
Where the debrief takes place is important, and should be a neutral space, with areas for breakout and privacy. It is important to be cognizant of potential triggers for the former hostage or wrongful detainee such as light/dark, open/closed, ground level/upper levels, quiet/background noise, etc can all be triggers.
- The debriefer
It is important that the former hostage or wrongful detainee has the option to choose or change the person conducting the debrief if they are unhappy. This should be made clear at the start of the debrief process. Conducting a debrief is a specialized activity and should not be undertaken by someone who has not been trained in what is a delicate and highly sensitive discussion.
- Support from well-trained professionals
It is important to ensure that the former hostage or wrongful detainee has access to a counselor either during the debrief, during breaks in the debrief, and/or following the debrief. The conversations will unearth difficult memories, so it is desirable to have expert support on hand if possible.
- Flexible process
The former hostage or wrongful detainee should be free to dictate the pace of the debrief; there should be regular breaks, the opportunity to pause and resume another day, and the chance to physically move away from the debrief room as needed. Further, it is important refreshments are available.
- Follow up
It is important to follow up with the former hostage or wrongful detainee to ensure they are coping well after the debrief. Schedule times to check in with the former hostage or wrongful detainee and allow them access to a counselor if requested.
The debrief process can be difficult. Some have described it as ‘surreal’ and have experienced many emotions such as wondering if they have actually been released, being overwhelmed by the attention they receive and guilt if they have had to leave other hostages and wrongful detainees behind. If conducted with sensitivity, these negative feelings can be reduced and ultimately it can be a positive experience for some.
Contact Hostage US for support.
