China: Statement by the Spokesperson on the sentencing of Mr Michael Spavor

The sentencing of Michael Spavor, a Canadian citizen, to 11 years of imprisonment was announced today at Dandong Detention Centre in China. 

Mr. Spavor was arbitrarily detained in December 2018, held under harsh conditions (so-called “Residential Surveillance at a Designated Location”) and formally indicted with endangering national security only in June 2020. The trial was held behind closed doors. He was not permitted to appoint lawyers of his choice, and consular access while in custody was heavily restricted. 

The European Union has repeatedly urged China to abide by its international legal obligations to guarantee procedural fairness and due process of law for Mr. Spavor. His right to a fair trial and due process, including the right to a public hearing, as guaranteed under international human rights law and China's Criminal Procedure Law, has not been upheld.

Link to original post: China: Statement by the Spokesperson on the sentencing of Mr Michael Spavor - European External Action Service (europa.eu)