Justice has finally prevailed as wrongfully imprisoned journalists are freed. But what does this complicated deal mean for future hostage diplomacy?
Articles on Hostage diplomacy
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The law doesn’t govern political prisoner exchanges. These are political processes done in secret, as governments can agree to whatever deals they want to make − and reject those they don’t.
The Israeli hostages in Gaza are living a nightmare. They’re likely to remain displaced, under duress and will be the human shields of this war.
The swiftness of the Chinese action to free the two Michaels signalled an important message to the world from the governing Chinese Communist Party: Don’t mess with us.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison gave a carefully worded statement in response to questions of a prisoner swap. This kind of deal could bring criticism from Australia’s allies.
There has not yet been an explanation for the detention of the CGTN news anchor, but it is difficult to untangle it from deeply strained relations between China and Australia.
‘Hostage diplomacy’ is a relatively recent term for an old practice - and one that appears to have a set place in China’s diplomatic arsenal.
Top contributors
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Tony Walker AM is a Friend of The Conversation.Director, La Trobe University
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Distinguished Professor of Law, Penn State
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Research Scholar, Middle East Studies, Australian National University
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Associate Professor in International Development Studies, Dalhousie University
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Associate professor, Human Rights Studies, King's University College, Western University
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Professor of Journalism and Communications, Macquarie University