Glossary · Hostage Diplomacy
Hostage Diplomacy
A critical descriptor for the arbitrary detention or threatened detention of foreign nationals for diplomatic leverage over another government.
Term type · Critical descriptor of wrongful detentionClustersCrisis & Risk ReadinessTypes of Diplomacy
Context
Canada and partner countries condemn this practice under international law; never frame hostage-taking as legitimate diplomacy.
Why it matters for foreign affairs
Foreign ministries face urgent consular, legal, human-rights and negotiation dilemmas where nationals are used as leverage.
Related Topics
Related Articles
Share this page