A "hostage" is a person who is held captive by an individual or group, often to compel a third party to act in a certain way. This situation can arise in various contexts, including criminal activities, political conflicts, or terrorist actions. The captors may demand ransom, political concessions, or other forms of negotiation in exchange for the hostage's release. The act of taking hostages is considered a serious crime and is often met with strong law enforcement responses. International laws, such as those outlined by the United Nations, aim to protect hostages and prevent such acts. Negotiations for their release can involve various parties, including governments, law enforcement agencies, and sometimes even non-governmental organizations.