China: Authorities reportedly detained a Japanese national in Beijing as of March 26

Event

Chinese authorities have reportedly detained a Japanese national in Beijing as of March 26. The individual, who is an employee of a Japanese pharmaceutical company, was allegedly arrested for violating China's domestic laws. However, the date and reason for his detention, as well as the charges against him and his current location, remain unknown. The Japanese government has urged China to release the individual and requested a consular visit.

Context

The recent arrest of a Japanese national in China highlights the continued risk of arbitrary detention faced by foreigners in the country. Chinese authorities have detained foreigners on the basis of endangering national security. Since 2015, China has detained at least 16 Japanese nationals on allegations of espionage, with concerns raised over the lack of transparency and due process in these cases. The issue of arbitrary detention in China is not limited to Japanese nationals, as several high-profile cases involving the detention of foreign citizens have occurred in recent years. In 2018, Beijing detained two Canadian citizens on espionage charges, widely considered as retaliation for Canada's arrest of a high-ranking Chinese executive. The cases highlight the importance of adhering to local laws while traveling or operating in China, especially those intended to prevent dissent against the government.