australian senate committtee releaseS final report and recommendations on wrongful detention and hostage diplomacy

(Alexandria, Virginia) This week, we celebrate a significant milestone in the fight against wrongful detention and hostage diplomacy. The Australian Senate has released a pivotal report to end these unjust practices and protect citizens targeted by authoritarian regimes. Inspired by frameworks in the U.S. and Canada, the report’s recommendations include establishing a dedicated envoy for wrongful detention, clearly defining these cases, and implementing sanctions to deter offenders.

This progress reflects the tireless advocacy of many, especially the Australian Wrongful and Arbitrary Detention Alliance (AWADA), led by Dr. Kylie Moore-Gilbert, who is a survivor of wrongful detention. Kylie was held hostage by the Islamic Regime in Iran.

AWADA has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of detainees and their families, pushing for critical reforms, and ensuring policymakers prioritize this issue. Dr. Moore-Gilbert and AWADA continue to advocate for more robust measures, including a Foreign Hostage-Takers Accountability Act, to impose diplomatic and legal consequences on regimes engaging in hostage diplomacy.

The Global Liberty Alliance was honored to contribute to this critical effort.  A few weeks ago,  GLA's Jason Poblete testified before the Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade References Committee of the Australian Senate, presenting evidence and advocating for concrete reforms to safeguard individuals from these violations. The testimony emphasized the urgency of coordinated action to deter such practices and highlighted the critical role of international cooperation in achieving justice.

Kylie’s campaign is only the beginning. Groups like AWADA and the Global Liberty Alliance need your support to implement these recommendations fully and effectively. Together, we can raise awareness,  advocate for the safety and dignity of all individuals caught in these devastating circumstances, and advance accountability campaigns to hold the perpetrators to account.

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