Michael Kovrig, a Canadian citizen, has recently disclosed the harrowing details of his detention in China, which lasted for more than 1,000 days. His account sheds light on the severe conditions he endured and the lasting impact of his imprisonment.
Kovrig, who was working as an advisor for a think tank at the time of his arrest, described being subjected to prolonged periods of solitary confinement and daily interrogations lasting up to nine hours. This treatment, he asserts, amounted to psychological torture.
"It was psychologically absolutely, the most grueling, painful thing I've ever been through. It's a combination of solitary confinement, total isolation, and relentless interrogation for six to nine hours every day."
The former diplomat's detention began in December 2018, shortly after Canadian authorities arrested Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, on a U.S. warrant. Huawei, founded in 1987, has since become the world's largest telecommunications equipment manufacturer and has been at the center of global debates on 5G network development.
Kovrig's experience aligns with concerns raised by the United Nations regarding the treatment of prisoners. UN guidelines stipulate that solitary confinement should not exceed 15 consecutive days, as prolonged isolation can be considered psychological torture. Kovrig reported being held in such conditions for nearly six months, far exceeding these recommendations.
The conditions of his confinement were particularly harsh. Kovrig described a cell without natural light, where fluorescent lights remained on continuously. At one point, his food ration was reduced to just three bowls of rice daily. These circumstances highlight the controversial nature of solitary confinement practices, which have been criticized in many countries.
The personal toll of Kovrig's detention was profound. He missed the birth of his daughter and only met her for the first time when she was two and a half years old. This separation underscores the human cost of what some have termed "hostage diplomacy" in international relations.
Kovrig and fellow Canadian Michael Spavor were released in September 2021, coinciding with the U.S. Justice Department's decision to drop its extradition request for Meng Wanzhou. This resolution marked a significant moment in the strained diplomatic relations between Canada and China, which have been formal since 1970.
The aftermath of this incident continues to affect bilateral ties. In September 2024, China initiated a one-year anti-dumping investigation into Canadian rapeseed imports, a move that came shortly after Canada imposed 100% tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles. These trade disputes reflect the complex nature of international relations, often governed by World Trade Organization rules on anti-dumping measures.
As Kovrig adjusts to life post-detention, the impact of his experience lingers. "I still carry a lot of pain around with me and that can be heavy at times," he shared, highlighting the long-term effects of his ordeal.
This case has brought attention to the broader issues of arbitrary detention of foreign nationals, which is prohibited under international law. It also underscores the potential risks faced by individuals working in international relations and policy analysis, particularly in regions with complex diplomatic landscapes.
As Canada and China navigate their relationship in the aftermath of this incident, the story of Michael Kovrig serves as a stark reminder of the human element in international disputes and the enduring consequences of diplomatic tensions.