The Center for Conflict and Humanitarian Studies (CHS), in collaboration with Global Affairs Canada, is hosting a roundtable entitled “Pathways to Accountability in Response to Hostage-Taking and Arbitrary Detention”, Thursday, 22 October 2026, in Doha, Qatar.
When victims of hostage-taking (terrorist, criminal, or state) return home, immediate attention is rightly focused on their physical and psychological recovery. Yet the impacts of captivity often persist long after release, leading many returnees and families to seek recognition, justice, and accountability for the harms they have endured.
For many, accountability is an important part of long-term recovery. It can validate victims' experiences, restore a sense of agency and dignity, and help deter future cases. Depending on the circumstances, accountability may take different forms, including diplomatic action, legal and international mechanisms, criminal investigations, prosecutions, sanctions, or other measures involving State, law enforcement, and international actors.
The proposed discussion would examine accountability for victims of hostage-taking and arbitrary detention, an issue that many former detainees identify as an important part of their long-term recovery. The conversation would bring together experts and practitioners to explore what accountability can look like in practice and how it can support victims and their families. A particular focus would be placed on the role of Qatar as a mediator and trusted intermediary, drawing on its experience facilitating the resolution of complex hostage and detainee cases and considering how mediation efforts can contribute to broader accountability objectives and the reinforcement of international norms.