For foreign nationals, what must be done even if they do not request it following an arrest or detention?

When a foreign national is arrested or detained, it is required to notify their consular officers, regardless of whether the individual has requested it. This procedure is rooted in international law, specifically the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, which stipulates that detained foreign nationals should have their consulate informed of their situation. This ensures that the individual has access to assistance from their home country, which can provide support and legal advice, and it upholds the rights of the detainee under international agreements. Prompt consular notification also helps to maintain diplomatic relations and transparency between nations.

This practice emphasizes the importance of communication and cooperation among countries in legal matters involving foreign nationals, reinforcing their rights and providing them with necessary resources during detention.