Canada launched an initiative Monday to stop countries from arbitrarily detaining foreign nationals for diplomatic gain. This initiative was endorsed by 58 countries and the EU.

Arbitrary arrests and detentions violate international human rights law, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Canada created a declaration, launched Monday, to “enhance international cooperation and end the practice of arbitrary arrest, detention or sentencing to exercise leverage over foreign governments.”

The Declaration Against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State Relations reaffirmed that arbitrary arrests are “contrary to international human rights law and instruments.” The declaration expressed concern over the arrests and over their impact on the “development of friendly relations and cooperation between States.” The initiative urged all nations to refrain from arbitrary detentions and to take concrete actions to prevent harsh conditions in detention.

On the initiative, Minister of Foreign Affairs Marc Garneau stated:

Today, a quarter of all countries, from all continents, come together to tell those who are being arbitrarily detained for diplomatic gain that they are not alone. We stand with them. This illegal and immoral practice puts citizens of all countries at risk and it undermines the rule of law. It is unacceptable and it must stop.

The declaration is non-binding, and it is not aimed at any particular country. Foreign ministers from countries including Japan, Britain and Australia have signed it, and it remains open for endorsement.