UN Human Rights Council 48: UK statement on Arbitrary Detention

Thank you, Madam President.

The United Kingdom would like to thank the Working Group for the presentation of its report today, and for the insights provided. We further recognise the volume of communications and requests for action handled by the Working Group.

Arbitrary detention is a hallmark of authoritarian regimes and its use is a tool of political intimidation. Arbitrary detention not only violates human rights, but also undermines the trust in institutions that keeps societies safe and open.

We know that persons in marginalised and vulnerable situations, as well as human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society activists are more often arbitrarily detained. We further recognise that persons who are arbitrarily detained are at greater risk of being subjected to other human rights violations.

This year, the United Kingdom has supported the Canadian-led Declaration against Arbitrary Detention in State-to-State relations, and we have committed to working with the G7 and other likeminded partners to end the practice.

Members of the Working Group,

What further steps can states take to work together to end the practice of arbitrary detention?

Thank you.