Since the passage of the Levinson Act in December 2020, many U.S. nationals wrongfully detained overseas have been reunited with their families. This has been achieved through a whole-of-government commitment, including bipartisan legislative support from Congress. The impact of wrongful detentions is profound for individuals, their families, and communities who endure long-term effects from these separations.
The Department of State has announced a new strategy to counter wrongful detentions. "This Strategy sets out the objectives, milestones, and indicators that will guide our work for years to come and hold us accountable to the American people to make progress toward our goals," states the announcement.
The strategy aims to use U.S. influence to enhance cooperation among states, civil society, and the private sector in preventing such detentions. The department also pledges support to allies confronting nations that engage in wrongful detention practices. "We further commit to lend our support to our partners and allies when they confront states that wrongfully or unjustly detain their nationals," it adds.
For more information, inquiries can be directed to SPEHA-Press@state.gov.
