The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement to mark the fourth anniversary of the launch of the Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations:
"Today, we commemorate the fourth anniversary of the Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations, marking a significant milestone. Eighty countries and entities from all corners of the world have now endorsed the declaration, demonstrating a powerful and growing global consensus against the use of individuals as bargaining chips in diplomatic disputes.
"Since 2021, we have made significant progress. We have hosted several high-profile international events on hostage diplomacy, drawing global attention to the issue and encouraging countries to take concrete action. We have made inroads on ensuring this issue receives the attention it deserves in regional and multilateral bodies. Additionally, we established the Independent International Panel on Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations, which is composed of eminent jurists, to recommend ways to fill gaps in international law, paving the way for justice and accountability. I eagerly anticipate the panel's final report in the coming months.
"Despite these achievements, the challenge remains as states continue to make use of hostage diplomacy as a tool of coercion and intimidation. We must stay vigilant and resolute in combatting this threat. Canada will continue to work with international partners to uphold the declaration's principles, support unjustly detained individuals and assist victims, survivors and their families.
"We know that this issue is not only about human rights: hostage diplomacy causes untold suffering for victims and their families and represents a grave threat to international peace and security.
"On this anniversary, I call on all nations to reaffirm their commitment to the declaration and take concrete actions to end hostage diplomacy. Let us work together to uphold justice, the rule of law and human rights for all."
Quick facts
- The declaration reaffirms established principles of human rights, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
- In June 2024, Canada, Argentina and Belgium co-hosted the first-ever official side event on arbitrary detention in state-to-state relations at the UN Human Rights Council. The event featured a panel of eminent experts who discussed the human rights and international law implications of hostage diplomacy, emphasized the importance of global solidarity and explored avenues for enhancing and complementing the multilateral system's ability to end this practice.
- In June 2024, with a view to strengthening support for Canada's initiative on the issue in the Americas and among multilateral partners, Canada secured the inclusion of language on arbitrary detention in the international law resolution adopted by the General Assembly of the Organization of American States.
