An effective deterrent force should be the first line of defense against potential terrorist acts. This should include police surveillance, infiltration of suspected terrorist groups, and exchanges of information between government agencies as well as governments themselves. Effective security is another important defensive step, and hostage survival courses -- now mandatory for all U.S. foreign service officials -- are vital. Also discussed are the merits of developing a special antiterrorism force which could be transported anywhere in the world, how best to deal with terrorist groups who take hostages to achieve their demands, and steps recommended by a hostage negotiation specialist for dealing with a hostage situation. The program concludes with the prediction that terrorism will continue to plague the world as long as political, social, and economic discontent remain unresolved. (Author summary modified)