Secretary Blinken’s Video Remarks on 58 Countries Signing Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations

Secretary Blinken speaks on the signing of the Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations by 58 countries. (Video Screenshot)

The Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations was signed on Feb. 15 by 58 countries, including the United States, at the initiative of Canada, to oppose the use of detention of foreign nationals by some countries as diplomatic leverage. The declaration does not name specific countries. However, it is believed to be related to the Canadian government’s diplomatic efforts to rescue two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, who have been in Chinese custody since late 2018. U.S. Secretary of State John Blinken delivers a video message on the declaration.

Here is a full translation of Secretary Blinken’s remarks.

I am honored to have been part of launching this initiative, and I thank Canada for its leadership in doing so.

Arbitrary detention in state-to-state relations is a serious problem. In short, this is when someone traveling or living abroad, such as a businessman, tourist or Family visitor, is detained and falsely charged or convicted by the government because of the nationality on their passport. They are then used to gain influence in state-to-state relations. They become a bargaining chip – a kind of hostage.

This is totally unacceptable. It has been banned by international human rights conventions. Yet certain countries continue to do it, and we as a global community must stand up against it.

Such arbitrary detentions violate the human rights of those held, cause suffering to their families, and threaten everyone who travels, works, and lives abroad.

It is Time to send a clear message to every government that arbitrarily detains foreign citizens and tries to use them as bargaining chips: the international community will not tolerate this practice.

The fact that so many countries support this declaration shows its power. Let’s keep the momentum going today. I urge more countries to join us in making a clear statement that arbitrary detention must not be tolerated in state-to-state relations. Human beings are not bargaining chips. This is about human rights and the rule of law. Together, we will stand up for both.