Press Work

HRIC’s press work draws upon our systematic policy monitoring and communications with a wide network of domestic contacts—petitioners, rights defenders and activists, lawyers, and citizen reporters—and the vibrant discourse of the expanding Chinese online community.

Through press releases, statements, case updates, and HRIC Bulletins, we contribute to public understanding of important issues and cases. Our press work provides an international platform for Chinese voices through extensive English translation of essays, statements, open letters, and petitions by individuals or groups inside China.

For Fairness and Justice, We Will Persevere: On the 33rd Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre

[Translation by Human Rights in China] Thirty-three years ago, a brutal tragedy of unparalleled savagery occurred in China, sending shockwaves across the nation and around the world. The ruling Communist Party of China and the Chinese government, in complete disregard of the lives of the hundreds...

June 1, 2022 | Statement | Government Accountability | HRIC Translation | June Fourth

UN Rights Chief Reports on Her Visit to China: What’s Wrong with This Picture?

Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, concludes her visit to China with a disappointing statement that betrays her mandate, as the world’s highest human rights authority, to “promote and protect the enjoyment and full realization, by all people, of all human rights.” Bachelet...

May 28, 2022 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Tibet | Uyghurs, Uighurs

Prosecution of the Hong Kong 47: Rule of Law on Trial

The cases of the 47 individuals accused of “conspiracy to commit subversion”—known as the Hong Kong 47, or NSL 47, in reference to the National Security Law under which they are charged—have languished in Hong Kong’s court system for more than a year, while most of the detainees have been denied...

April 22, 2022 | HRIC Bulletin | Hong Kong

UN High Commissioner must uphold principled and coherent response to China’s human rights crisis

HRIC note: In anticipation of her upcoming visit to China, HRIC joins 59 human rights NGOs around the world in calling upon Michelle Bachelet to improve her office’s approach to addressing China’s human rights abuses. Among the NGOs’ requests are: release the long-delayed OHCHR report on Xinjiang,...

Open letter to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights: OHCHR report on grave human rights violations in Xinjiang can wait no longer

Madam High Commissioner, We, the undersigned human rights organisations, write to follow up on your commitment last year to release a report on grave ongoing human rights violations by Chinese authorities targeting Uyghurs and other Turkic communities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (the...

March 8, 2022 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Tibet

Olympic Athletes Speak Out

The 2022 Winter Olympic Games in Beijing concluded on February 20, 2022, under a cloud of controversy highlighting the inappropriateness of awarding a country with an abysmal human rights record the honor of hosting an event meant to celebrate human dignity. In the lead-up to the Games, as if to...

February 25, 2022 | HRIC Bulletin | Freedom of Expression | Olympics

Beijing Olympics Begin Amid Atrocity Crimes: 243 Global Groups Call for Action on Rights Concerns

(New York, January 27, 2022) – The 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics will open amid atrocity crimes and other grave human rights violations by the Chinese government, 243 nongovernmental organizations from around the world said today. The groups urged governments to join a diplomatic boycott of the...

January 27, 2022 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability

2022 Beijing Winter Olympics: Confronting the True Face of the CPC

Looking back to look ahead Fourteen years ago, the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics was critical for Chinese leaders to signal to audiences at home and abroad that China had arrived on the world stage as a powerful, respected global player. With the active participation of the international community,...

HRIC Joins 44 NGOs in Appeal for Release of Citizen Journalist Zhang Zhan

Mr. Xi Jinping State Chairman People’s Republic of China The State Council General Office 2 Fuyoujie, Xichengqu Beijingshi 100017 Paris, 17 September, 2021 Mr. Chairman, As a collective of non-governmental organisations defending human rights and freedom of the press, we urge you to exonerate...

FIDH-HRIC Joint Statement on Hong Kong at the UN Human Rights Council 48th Session

Joint Statement of International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) & Human Rights in China (HRIC) UN Human Rights Council 48th Session Item 2 – General Debate Delivered by Mi Ling Tsui Communications Director, Human Rights in China Video (00:57:25-00:58:55) FIDH and its member...

September 15, 2021 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | International Human Rights

NGO Joint Letter to Hong Kong Secretary for Justice Teresa Cheng Urging Release of Chow Hang-tung

Ms. Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah Secretary for Justice Department of Justice G/F, Main Wing, Justice Place, 18 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong CC: Carrie Lam, Chief Executive Re: Prosecution of Tiananmen Vigil Organizer Chow Hang-tung Dear Secretary Cheng, We, a group of 72 international non-...

July 20, 2021 | Joint Statements | Hong Kong | Access to Justice

A Tribute to the Women Who Resist: On the Sixth Anniversary of the 709 Crackdown

On the occasion of the sixth anniversary of the 709 Crackdown, Human Rights in China (HRIC) honors Chinese women rights defenders by highlighting the activism of nine notable women who have been steadfast in fighting against suppression by the authorities: CHEN Zijuan (陈紫娟) HUANG Simin (黄思敏) LI...

July 8, 2021 | HRIC Bulletin | 709 Crackdown | Access to Justice | Government Accountability

32nd Anniversary of June Fourth: A Historic Moment to Make A Difference

Thirty-two years ago, hardliners in the Communist Party of China made the cold-blooded decision to crush citizens’ voices and mobilize the People’s Liberation Army against the Chinese people, killing and maiming unarmed, peaceful protestors demanding the fundamental conditions for a healthy society...

Our Faith and Perseverance Will Never Change: On the 32nd Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre

[Translation by Human Rights in China] On June 4, 1989, in a time of peace, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, under the leadership and command of the ruling authorities, sent tanks, armored vehicles, and soldiers with live ammunition onto the ten-mile Chang’an Avenue in Beijing. Without...

June 1, 2021 | Press Release | Government Accountability | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

The Costs of Separating Investment from Human Rights: The EU Comprehensive Agreement on Investment with China as Exhibit A

Originally published by the U.S.-Asia Law Institute. In December 2020 the European Union (EU) announced that it had concluded in principle a Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) with China. In so doing, the EU deliberately segregated its investment negotiations with China from its human...

Intervention by Sharon Hom at Exchange of Views on “Comprehensive Agreement on Investment” (CAI) between EU and China Convened by the European Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights

I. Introduction Let me first express my appreciation for this opportunity to contribute to the exchange of views on an important investment agreement. My organization, Human Rights in China, is one of the 35 civil society organizations that has endorsed the Joint Appeal on the Inclusion of...

Joint Appeal on the Inclusion of Enforceable Human Rights Clauses in the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment

In the Joint Appeal, HRIC joins 35 NGOs and labor unions around the world to express grave concerns that the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI)—reached between leaders of the two governments in December 2020—“sends a signal that the European Union will push for closer cooperation...

Joint Letter to Biden Administration: Make Human Rights a Priority in China Policy

HRIC joins 23 NGOs and individuals in urging the Biden Administration to prioritize human rights in U.S-China policy as the “scope and scale of human rights violations committed by the Chinese government inside and outside the country require a fundamental shift.” February 17, 2021 Joseph R. Biden...

HRIC Urges China to Lift Travel Ban on Guo Feixiong and Not Create More Family Tragedies

Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), well-known Chinese human rights activist, was stopped at the Shanghai Pudong Airport on January 28 while en route to the United States to care for his ailing wife. The authorities reportedly cited “suspicion of endangering national security" as the reason. Guo has begun a hunger...

January 28, 2021 | Statement | Access to Justice | Government Accountability | Rights Defenders

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: Human Rights Defenders in China

An edited and expanded version of the remarks delivered at the 22nd EU-NGO Human Rights Forum: The Impact of New Technologies on Human Rights (“Setting the Scene” panel) December 9, 2020[1] Introduction Thank you to the European Commission, the European External Action Service (EEAS), and the...

January 13, 2021 | HRIC Commentary | Government Accountability | International Human Rights | Technology

A scene from the unofficial primaries held in July 2020, which the authorities characterize as “subversion of state power” under the National Security Law. (Photo: Studio Incendo)

Hong Kong Arrests of 55: Time to Test Article 4 of National Security Law

1. Hong Kong authorities conflate internationally protected rights with “subversion” In the early morning of Wednesday, January 6, in a move intended to decimate political opposition and extinguish political activism and participation, Hong Kong authorities deployed some 1,000 police officers to...

HRIC’s submission to the United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights regarding academic freedom in Hong Kong

HONG KONG: CIVIL SOCIETY SUBMISSION TO THE UNITED NATIONS COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL RIGHTS 68th SESSION, 8 March 2021 – 12 MARCH 2021, PRE-SESSIONAL WORKING GROUP, LIST OF ISSUES PRIOR TO REVIEW Submitted by Human Rights in China December 18, 2020 CONTENTS I. Introduction:...

December 18, 2020 | HRIC Report | Hong Kong | United Nations

Transcripts of Remarks on Xinjiang and Hong Kong by Michelle Bachelet, UN High Commission for Human Rights

On the December 9, at her year-end press conference at the Human Rights Council, UN High Commission for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet spoke out on the serious human rights violations in Xinjiang and expressed concerns regarding what she called the “rapidly shrinking civic and democratic space in...

December 11, 2020 | HRIC Bulletin | Hong Kong | United Nations | Uyghurs, Uighurs

Too Soon to Concede the Future: The Implementation of The National Security Law for Hong Kong--An HRIC White Paper

CONTENTS Executive Summary 1. Introduction 2. Implementation of the National Security Law to Date Despite targeting of peaceful exercise of fundamental rights, yet still—people persist The Law creates an architecture of direct and indirect Central Government supervision, monitoring, and control of...

October 16, 2020 | Press Release | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | One country, two systems

As China Seeks Reelection to UN Human Rights Council, States and Civil Society Condemn Its Human Rights Abuses

During the UN Human Rights Council’s 45th session that concluded yesterday in Geneva, Council member states and civil society organizations voiced urgent concerns about China’s serious and ongoing human rights abuses, centering on two sets of actions that have prompted international outcry:...

Poet Wang Zang and Wife Accused of “Inciting Subversion”; Four Young Children Under Virtual House Arrest

Human Rights in China has learned that poet Wang Zang (王藏) and his wife Wang Li (王丽), of Chuxiong City, Yunnan Province, have been arrested for "inciting subversion of state power." Police authorities have referred their cases in mid-September to the procuratorate to seek indictments. According to...

September 21, 2020 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Inciting Subversion Of State Power

UN Legal Experts Urge China to Review, Reconsider National Security Law to Comply with Its International Obligations

In a joint communication to the Chinese government, seven United Nations independent human rights experts presented a legal assessment of the National Security Law for Hong Kong (NSL). They also detailed their numerous concerns that the law does not comply with the government’s international legal...

September 6, 2020 | HRIC Law Bulletin | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | United Nations

Written submission of intervention by Sharon Hom at the co-facilitators’ informal consultations on state of UN human rights treaty body system (session with NGOs and NHRIs)

Thank you for this opportunity to share our concerns and recommendations. We completely align with the concerns and recommendations that have already been advanced and reiterated by Jacob Blaustein Institute and Amnesty International, as well as those we have shared throughout the treaty body...

September 1, 2020 | Statement | Access to Information | International Human Rights

HRIC Comment on and Translation of Peking University’s Rules on Participation in Online Conferences Organized by Foreign Parties

On August 20, 2020, Peking University issued a “Notice on Regulating the Declaration and Approval of Participation in Online International Conferences Organized by Foreign Parties.” The Notice requires all teachers and students planning to participate in online conferences (webinars) to declare...

August 26, 2020 | Issues Brief | Access to Information | HRIC Translation

Joint statement by FIDH & HRIC: Arrests of pro-democracy figures under the national security law condemned

(New York, Paris) FIDH and its member organization Human Rights in China (HRIC) condemn the latest wave of high-profile arrests of pro-democracy figures under the recently-enacted national security law. Yesterday, police in Hong Kong arrested 10 people, including independent media owner Jimmy Lai...

Joint open letter to foreign ministers Re: China’s National Security Law for Hong Kong

Dear Foreign Ministers, We, a coalition of 17 organizations and independent scholars, write to express our grave concerns about Hong Kong’s National Security Law, imposed on June 30, 2020 by the Chinese government. We appreciate the concerns you have expressed publicly about this development, but...

July 30, 2020 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | One country, two systems

Fifth Anniversary of 709 Crackdown: Updated Chart of Persecution of Lawyers and Legal and Rights Advocates

Five years ago, in July 2015, the Chinese authorities rounded up some 300 lawyers, legal advocates, and other rights activists in a campaign aimed at strangling rights defense work in China, including within the legal system. In what has come to be known as the 709 Crackdown, many were charged with...

July 9, 2020 | Press Release | 709 Crackdown | Access to Justice | Rule Of Law

HRIC annotated bilingual chart of The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

In the late evening of June 30, 2020, the National People’s Congress Standing Committee Standing Committee (NPCSC) unanimously passed The Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (NSL-HK) that went into force the same day...

Joint Statement by FIDH, HRIC, & TAHR: Hong Kong: National security law cements Beijing’s authoritarian rule

FIDH – International Federation for Human Rights and its member organizationsHuman Rights in China (HRIC) Taiwan Association for Human Rights (TAHR)Covenants Watch Joint press release Hong Kong: National security law cements Beijing’s authoritarian rule New York, Paris Taipei, 1 July 2020: FIDH...

The Crisis in Hong Kong: Xi Jinping Loots a Burning House

[Translation by Human Rights in China] At precisely the moment when countries around the world are still focusing their energies on combating the pandemic of the century, and the situation in Hong Kong deteriorates by the hour, the Chinese authorities have seized the opportunity to announce a “Hong...

HRIC Joins 85 NGOs Worldwide Urging the Withdrawal of the Planned National Security Law for Hong Kong

OPEN LETTER June 16, 2020 To: Li Zhanshu Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPCSC) Re: Reject National Security Legislation Dear Chairman Li, We are writing to express our grave concerns regarding the recent adoption by China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) of...

June 16, 2020 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | One country, two systems

A Tribute to Xu Zhiyong: Rights Advocate and Public Intellectual

HRIC welcomes the 2020 PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award bestowed on Xu Zhiyong, announced on June 4. The honoring and recognition of one of the most influential rights advocates in China today come as Xu is detained under “residential surveillance” in an undisclosed location and facing charges of...

June 5, 2020 | Statement | Access to Justice | Freedom of Expression | Rule Of Law

CPC’s Enforced Amnesia of June Fourth Spreads to Hong Kong

For the first time in 30 years, Hong Kong authorities are banning the annual June Fourth candlelight vigil in Victoria Park, which has been peacefully held for decades, drawing tens of thousands, and as many as 150,000 to 200,0000 in some years, to commemorate those who died in the June Fourth...

June 3, 2020 | Statement | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | June Fourth

Tell the Truth, Refuse to Forget, Lies Written in Ink Cannot Conceal the Facts Written in Blood On the 31st Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre

[English translation by Human Rights in China] This year, 2020, is the 31st anniversary of the June Fourth massacre that took place in Beijing, China, in 1989. We will not forget the tragedy. That year, in peacetime, the Chinese government mobilized our nation’s military force—a force flaunted as "...

In the Wake of the Pandemic: Enemies on All Sides

In just over two months, under Xi Jinping’s personal command and direction, the novel coronavirus that initially emerged in Wuhan has spun out of control to become a once-in-a-century pandemic event that has caused the untimely deaths of hundreds of thousands of people around the world.[1] To fight...

April 16, 2020 | HRIC Commentary | Citizen Activism | Current affairs | Government Accountability

Onslaught of “Rule of Law” with Chinese Characteristics on Hong Kong

On Thursday, May 21, authorities in Beijing announced a draft Decision to formulate and enact national security legislation prohibiting four identified security threats in Hong Kong: secession, subversion of state power, terrorism, and foreign interference. The move contravenes requirement in...

Human Rights Concerns Regarding Article 23 Legislation: Background and Key Issues

Background After almost a century of colonial rule, the Sino-British Joint Declaration of 1984 between the United Kingdom (UK) and The People’s Republic of China (PRC) paved the way for the return of Hong Kong to the PRC in 1997. It established a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) to be...

15 arrested pro dem figures collage (Photo: Courtesy Hong Kong Free Press)

Escalating Attacks on Hong Kong's Rule of Law and Freedoms

The arrests of 15 pro-democracy activists on Saturday, April 18 marked a sharp turning point in the protest movement that has engulfed the city for nearly a full year. Taking place amidst a global pandemic and renewed calls for enactment of Article 23 national security law, this campaign targeted...

April 21, 2020 | Statement | Hong Kong | One country, two systems | Rule Of Law

Xi Jinping Owes an Apology to the Chinese People and the World

[Translation by Human Rights in China] In the beginning of March, “A Battle against Epidemic,” a book whose publication had been trumpeted by the propaganda machine of the Communist Party of China just days earlier, was hastily withdrawn even before its release. Many thought, therefore, that there...

March 6, 2020 | Guest Commentary | Current affairs | Government Accountability | HRIC Translation

Xi Jinping is the Culprit of the Wuhan Epidemic

No one had expected that the novel coronavirus pneumonia outbreak in Wuhan more than a month ago would quickly turn into the disaster of the century, spreading across China and to the world. The authorities first covered up the epidemic, created a flourishing scene of happiness and prosperity,...

February 27, 2020 | HRIC Commentary | Current affairs | Government Accountability

Talking Out of Both Sides of the Face Mask: Propaganda and Practice in the Age of Coronavirus

As the grip of the coronavirus continues to tighten, local governments are at the forefront of efforts to implement ever-stricter regulations aimed at stopping the epidemic in its tracks. Just this week, for example, the Zhangwan District of Shiyan City in Hubei Province issued a notice on...

Luo Huining’s Mission Impossible

[Translation by Human Rights in China] Just as the New Year begins, a long-simmering rumor of Beijing replacing the chief of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has finally been confirmed. Why would Beijing change horses at this...

World’s Top Human Rights Official Must Uphold Her Mandate and Press for Human Rights Protection for the People of Hong Kong

HRIC is deeply concerned about the statement by the spokesperson for the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) during a briefing on November 19, 2019, that castigated the “extreme violence” committed by young protesters in Hong Kong, “including against the police force.” While...

November 22, 2019 | Statement | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

Hong Kong SAR Government Must Ensure Effective De-escalation of Dangerous Police Action at PolyU

HRIC condemns the Hong Kong police’s actions on and around the campus of Hong Kong Polytechnic University after trapping students, journalists, and first aiders, and reportedly handcuffing the latter group. Video footage circulating online of scenes from early morning November 18, Hong Kong time,...

November 17, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | Rule Of Law

HRIC Translation: China’s Follow-up Response to UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

In August 2018, China underwent a periodic review by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on the country’s implementation of obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD). Among the key topics of the Committee’...

October 30, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | International Human Rights | United Nations

Chinese Government’s Follow-up Response to the Concluding Observations of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Chinese Government’s Follow-up Response to the Concluding Observations of the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination October 8, 2019 中国政府关于联合国消除种族歧视委员会结论性意见后续行动的答复材料 Source: https://tbinternet.ohchr.org/_layouts/15/treatybodyexternal/Download.aspx?symbolno=CERD%2fC%2fCHN%2fCO%...

FIDH Urgent Resolution on the Human Rights Situation in Hong Kong

FIDH 40th Congress – Taipei, Taiwan FIDH Urgent Resolution on the Human Rights Situation in Hong Kong Sponsored by Human Rights in China (HRIC) and the Taiwan Association for Human Rights (TAHR) Delegates gathered at the FIDH 40th Congress, Recognizing that over the past four months, diverse...

October 24, 2019 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

NGOs from Over 100 Countries Support the People of Hong Kong

At its congress in Taipei, the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), a global federation of 192 human rights member organizations from more than 100 countries, unanimously approved an urgent resolution (full text below) supporting the Hong Kong people’s protests calling for government...

October 24, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

The People's Republic of China at 70: The Final Insanity

The military parade and celebrations marking the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China have finally ended. As the boss of the Communist Party of China, Xi Jinping can finally breathe a sigh of relief. He managed to break the “Russell’s curse” that had haunted the CPC,...

Naked Police Violence in Hong Kong as Beijing Celebrates National Day

As Beijing mounted a tightly choreographed spectacle of tanks, bombers, and missiles, with a march of 15,000 soldiers, to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, a police officer in Hong Kong shot a teenage demonstrator in the chest at close range. While...

October 1, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

CECC Hearing: “Hong Kong’s Summer of Discontent and U.S. Policy Responses”

On September 17, HRIC Executive Director Sharon Hom joined three Hong Kong activists and a U.S.-based security expert in testimony before the Congressional-Executive Commission on China in a high-profile, and widely-reported hearing, “Hong Kong’s Summer of Discontent and U.S. Policy Responses.” (...

September 19, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Citizen Participation | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

Sharon Hom’s Testimony at Congressional-Executive Commission on China’s Hearing: “Hong Kong’s Summer of Discontent and U.S. Policy Responses”

Chairman McGovern, Co-Chairman Rubio, and Members of the Commission, Thank you for this hearing opportunity. It is an honor for me to stand in solidarity with the frontline activists. I want to thank the Commission members for their critical support for the Hong Kong people and leadership on the...

September 17, 2019 | Statement | Hong Kong | Citizen Participation | Government Accountability

China/Hong Kong: UN experts urge China to respect protesters’ rights

GENEVA (12 September 2019) - UN human rights experts* reacted with alarm to reports of attacks on demonstrators, arrests of activists and human rights defenders, and threats to communications, as protests in Hong Kong entered their third month. The experts welcomed the detailed response to their...

Open letter on the rule of law in China

Across the People’s Republic of China, human rights violations are a systemic reality. Over the past year, the UN has once again documented legal and policy frameworks that fail to protect against discrimination; stigmatise Islam and stifle freedom of religious belief; undermine a wide range of...

September 9, 2019 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Hong Kong | Rule Of Law

Hong Kong: A High-Stakes Gamble Xi Jinping Is Destined to Make

The almost three-month-long struggle of the people of Hong Kong has become the biggest crisis that Xi Jinping has faced since he took office. Since the beginning of the year, the highest authorities in Beijing have been aware that China's overall situation is far from favorable, as a multitude of...

End Impunity for State-Sanctioned Violence in Hong Kong

Over the past eleven weeks, the international community has watched with alarm the escalation of violence by the Hong Kong police force against a diverse swath of Hong Kong people engaged in peaceful demonstrations against an extradition bill introduced by Carrie Lam, the Chief Executive of the...

August 13, 2019 | Statement | Government Accountability | Hong Kong

Three Changsha Anti-Discrimination Advocates Face Subversion Charges, Wife is Put Under “Residential Surveillance”

In a case that has shaken anti-discrimination rights defense circles inside China and overseas, state security detained on July 22 three disability rights legal advocates working in Changsha—Cheng Yuan (程渊), Liu Yongze (刘永泽), and Wu Gejianxiong (吴葛健雄)—on suspicion of “subversion of state power.”...

August 9, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Subversion Of State Power

HRIC Joins 200 NGOs and Individuals in Appeal for Immediate Release of Changsha Three: Cheng Yuan, Liu Yongze, Xiao Wu

Changsha Three Open Letter To: People's Republic of China Delegation to the UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (PCB) Mr. Mingzhu Li, Commissioner, Beijing Ms. Juan Li, Deputy Director, Geneva Mr. Gang Xia, Deputy Director-General, Beijing Mr. Yiyun Hu, Deputy Director, Center for STIs and AIDS...

August 9, 2019 | Joint Statements | Access to Justice | Subversion Of State Power

Huang Qi sentenced to 12 years in prison

The Mianyang Intermediate People’s Court on July 29, 2019, found veteran Sichuan activist Huang Qi (黄琦) guilty of “illegally providing state secrets abroad” and “intentionally leaking state secrets.” He was sentenced to 12 years in prison, deprived of political rights for four years, and fined RMB...

July 29, 2019 | Case Update | Access to Justice | June Fourth

HRIC Urges Michelle Bachelet to Support the People of Hong Kong

In a letter to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, Human Rights in China urges her to speak out publicly, strongly, and unequivocally to support the people of Hong Kong in their demand for the full withdrawal of an extradition bill that has triggered, over recent weeks,...

HRIC Testimony at the CECC & TLHRC Hearing: “Tiananmen at 30: Examining the Evolution of Repression in China”

[Check against delivered version] Congressional Hearing Tiananmen at 30: Examining the Evolution of Repression in China Congressional-Executive Commission on China and the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission June 4, 2019 Testimony of Mi Ling Tsui Communications Director, Human Rights in China ...

June 6, 2019 | Statement | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

A Time for Truth: 30th Anniversary of June Fourth

See HRIC’s special website on June Fourth 30th anniversary. Thirty years ago, on June 3-4, 1989, the Chinese government unleashed massive military force against civilians in Beijing, both participants and observers of an exuberant and peaceful large-scale protest centered in Tiananmen Square which...

Mourning Our Families and Compatriots Killed in the June Fourth Massacre: A Letter to China’s Leaders

Members of the Tiananmen Mothers with photos of their loved ones killed in June Fourth. [English Translation by Human Rights in China] I We are a group of citizens who lost our loved ones in the June Fourth Massacre. Thirty years ago, along Chang'an Avenue in front of the Tiananmen Gate in the...

Fate of Lawyer Jiang Tianyong and Family Again Exposes True Face of China’s Totalitarian Regime

Under intense international anticipation of the release today from prison of prominent rights lawyer Jiang Tianyong (江天勇), who was convicted of the trumped up charge of “inciting subversion of state power,” the Chinese authorities have instead disappeared him. His supporters outside the Henan...

NGOs Call for Unconditional Release of Tashi Wangchuk, Tibetan Language Advocate

Dear Chairman Xi, We are writing to you on International Mother Language Day, a day to embrace and enjoy cultural and linguistic diversity and multilingualism. Every year since 2000, this day has been marked around the world with the aim of promoting peace and preserving mother tongues, one of the...

February 21, 2019 | Joint Statements | Access to Justice | Government Accountability | Tibet

HRIC among 40 NGOs Worldwide Urging UN Resolution on China’s Rights Abuses

In an open letter sent to heads of government missions to the UN in Geneva, Human Rights in China joins 39 other NGOs to press for a UN resolution to address the deteriorating human rights situation in China. The NGOs call for governments to use the upcoming session of the Human Rights Council (...

January 30, 2019 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | International Human Rights

NGO Joint Letter: At upcoming session of Human Rights Council, States should pass resolution to address human rights violations in the People’s Republic of China

Download PDF version Your Excellency, The past year was marked by vitally important monitoring and review of China’s human rights situation by the United Nations human rights system. The upcoming session of the UN Human Rights Council provides a key opportunity to reinforce the issues raised over...

January 30, 2019 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | International Human Rights

Trial Suspended as Sichuan Activist Huang Qi Reportedly Dismissed His Lawyer

The long awaited trial of the case of veteran Sichuan activist Huang Qi (黄琦) began and ended two days ago, on January 14, with little information available to the outside world about its outcome or what transpired. As has been widely reported, supporters and foreign diplomats seeking to attend the...

January 16, 2019 | Case Update | Access to Justice

“No” to a Google Search Engine with Chinese Characteristics—Not “Right Now” or Ever

In a Congressional hearing today, faced with questions from multiple members of the U.S. House Judiciary Committee about Google’ s controversial Dragonfly Project—a search engine in development designed to meet the censorship requirements of the Chinese government—Google CEO Sundar Pichai...

NGO Joint Letter to Google CEO on Project Dragonfly

HRIC joins 70 NGOs, individuals in an open letter led by Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International to urge Google to drop the development of a censored search engine for the Chinese market. OPEN LETTER: RESPONSE TO GOOGLE on PROJECT DRAGONFLY, CHINA AND HUMAN RIGHTS To: Sundar Pichai, Chief...

HRIC Urges International Attention on 32 Jasic Workers and Supporters Detained, Disappeared

On November 9 and 11, continuing their attempt to crush the support for a campaign to form an independent union by workers at the factory of Jasic Technology in Shenzhen, authorities seized 18 supporters in five cities—Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Wuhan. The actions included the...

Mother of Detained Rights Activist Huang Qi Fears Reprisal, Calls for International Attention

In a statement authenticated by her thumbprint, Pu Wenqing (蒲文清), 85, mother of Huang Qi (黄琦), the Sichuan rights activist in prolonged detention, says that the authorities have deployed large amounts of resources to monitor her as she petitions for justice for her son. She says if she is missing,...

November 19, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Government Accountability | HRIC Translation

China’s UPR: Will Concerns Raised over Ethnic and Religious Repression Lead to Accountability?

China’s continued repression of ethnic minorities in Xinjiang and Tibet and acts in blatant violation of religious and cultural rights and freedoms protected under international law remained a focus of the concerns raised by many states during the Universal Periodic Review of China at the UN Human...

November 6, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | International Human Rights | United Nations

UPR China: Will Governments Stand Firm on Accountability and Universal Standards?

On November 6, at the United Nations in Geneva, China will undergo the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of its human rights record. The review takes place amid mounting reports of mass internment of ethnic Uyghur Muslims in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR), and as China has stepped up...

November 1, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability | International Human Rights | United Nations

Excerpts from the Record of What Huang Qi Said During His Meeting with Lawyer Liu Zhengqing

The following narrative—signed by and in the first-person voice of Huang Qi, the detained Sichuan rights activist—is excerpted from the record made by lawyer Liu Zhengqing of what Huang said to him during their meeting on September 7, 2018. Photos of the original record in Chinese, credited to Wu...

October 3, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | HRIC Translation

Wife of Rights Activist Jiang Yefei Calls on Canadian Government, UN, and International Human Rights Organizations to Help Her Husband

In her appeal below, Chu Ling (楚玲), the wife of the imprisoned political cartoonist and rights activist Jiang Yefei (姜野飞), urges the Canadian government, the United Nations, and international human rights organizations to intervene in her husband’s case. Chu calls on them to pressure the Chinese...

September 18, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Freedom of Expression | Subversion Of State Power

UN Experts Report on China’s Implementation of International Obligation to Respect, Protect, and Ensure Rights of Ethnic Minorities and Other Vulnerable Groups

In a report issued today, a UN committee of independent experts detail numerous concerns over the adequacy of the Chinese government’s efforts in implementing its treaty obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (ICERD) to respect and...

August 30, 2018 | Statement | Racial Discrimination | United Nations

On Google’s Reported Plan to Work with Chinese Censors

This week, international media reported with some alarm the news that Google is building a version of its search engine for mobile users in China that is designed to restrict information flow by filtering out search terms including human rights, democracy, religion, and peaceful protest. ...

International Community Must Stand in Solidarity with Chinese Human Rights Lawyers

Three years have passed since the 709 Crackdown, but the Chinese authorities’ repression of human rights lawyers in China continues. The 709 Crackdown not only marked the beginning of a downturn of China’s political environment, but also has far-reaching negative implications for China’s judicial...

July 6, 2018 | Statement | 709 Crackdown | Access to Justice

NGOs to EU on Human Rights Crisis in China: “Failure to Robustly Challenge China’s Abusive Conduct Helps Enable it”

[Download/View PDF] June 13, 2018 Mr. Donald TuskPresident of the European CouncilRue de la Loi 1751048 Brussels Mr. Jean-Claude JunkerPresident of the European CommissionRue de la Loi 2001049 Brussels Re: 2018 EU-China Summit Dear President Tusk and President Juncker, Several of our organizations...

June 13, 2018 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | International Human Rights

International Community Must Support the Tiananmen Mothers to Press for Official Accounting of the 1989 June Fourth Crackdown

“Although the June Fourth tragedy has become history, the catastrophe it brought has not yet come to an end, and it is difficult for the wounds to heal.” —Tiananmen Mothers, June 1, 2018 It has been 29 years since the Chinese authorities unleashed a bloody crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement,...

June 1, 2018 | Statement | Government Accountability | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Open Letter to Xi Jinping from the Tiananmen Mothers

On the occasion of the 29th anniversary of June Fourth, the Tiananmen Mothers authorize Human Rights in China to publish this open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping. The full text of the open letter is as follows. [Translation by Human Rights in China] Dear President Xi Jinping: This year...

Huang Qi's Mother Appeals to Central Authorities for Unconditional Release of Her Son

Pu Wenqing (蒲文清), mother of detained Sichuan rights activist Huang Qi (黄琦), recently sent an appeal to request the Central Inspection Team to instruct relevant authorities in Sichuan Province and Mianyang Municipality to openly and fairly handle Huang Qi’s case in accordance with the law, and...

May 4, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice

NGO Joint Letter Urging UN Member States to Speak Out Against Human Rights Rollback in China

[PDF version] Your Excellency, We write prior to the 37th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council to urge your delegation to send a clear message to China denouncing its rollback in respect for human rights. Since President Xi Jinping assumed power in March 2013, Chinese authorities have...

February 3, 2018 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | International Human Rights | United Nations

NGO Joint Open letter to the UN Secretary-General on the state of the treaty body system

[PDF version] Dear Secretary-General, In advance of the preparation of your upcoming second biennial report on “the status of the human rights treaty body system and the progress achieved by the UN human rights treaty bodies in realizing greater efficiency and effectiveness in their work” as set...

February 26, 2018 | Joint Statements | International Human Rights | United Nations

NGOs Call for Release of Tibetan Language Advocate Tashi Wangchuk: Open Letter to Xi Jinping

Open Letter To President Xi JinpingRE: Immediate and unconditional release of Tibetan language advocate,Tashi Wangchuk Our organisations are committed to freedom of expression, freedom of the press and human rights in Tibet and China. We are writing today, on World Press Freedom Day, to express...

May 3, 2018 | Joint Statements | Access to Justice

“I am under siege in my house”: Message from Li Wenzu, Wife of Disappeared Lawyer Wang Quanzhang

Below is a translation of a message from Li Wenzu (李文足), wife of disappeared lawyer Wang Quanzhang (王全璋), who has been put under house arrest in Beijing. The message was tweeted out on April 11 by Cai Chu (蔡楚), chief editor of the minzhuzhongguo.org and canyu.org websites. On April 4, 2018, Li...

April 11, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice

In Memoriam: Lois Wheeler Snow

Lois Wheeler Snow died on April 3, 2018, in Geneva, Switzerland. The actress and author was an outspoken critic of human rights abuses in China. Born in 1920 in Stockton, California, Ms. Snow was the widow of journalist Edgar Snow, whose 1937 book on the Communist revolution, Red Star Over China,...

April 9, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin

China’s Challenge to International Human Rights at UN Threatens Everyone: HRIC Submission to the Human Rights Council

In a parallel report submitted to the Human Rights Council, HRIC cautions that China has been mounting a systematic campaign at the United Nations to undermine the existing human rights system with consequences for Chinese people and for the effectiveness of human rights protections for all people...

March 30, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | International Human Rights | United Nations

Guangdong Whistleblower Liu Yao, Serving 20 Years, Cites Violations of Judicial Process by 60 Officials

In an appeal submitted last week, Liu Yao (刘尧), a well-known former rights defense lawyer sentenced to 20 years in prison and a fine of RMB 1.4 million ($221,000) for “extortion,” “fraud,” and “buying trafficked children,” asks the Guangdong Provincial Procuratorate to vacate his conviction. Liu...

March 22, 2018 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers

China: Authoritarian Rule at Home, Threat to Human Rights Abroad

In a near-unanimous vote on March 11, the National People’s Congress, China’s legislature, passed the proposed 21 amendments to the Chinese constitution. Among the most consequential are the removal of the two-term limit on the presidency and vice-presidency (Art. 79), and the relocation of the...

March 11, 2018 | Statement

HRIC Statement on Tashi Wangchuk

[Delivered at a rally jointly organized by the U.S. Tibet Committee, Dokham Chushi Gangdruk of New York and New Jersey, Regional Tibetan Youth Association of New York and New Jersey, and Students for a Free Tibet, NYC] Human Rights in China protests and condemns the prolonged-detention and...

January 8, 2018 | Statement | Citizen Participation | Freedom of Expression | Tibet

Seriously Ill, Activist Huang Qi in Detention Nearly One Year without Charge

Nearly a year ago, on November 28, 2016, Sichuan rights activist Huang Qi (黄琦) was detained by police in Chengdu and formally arrested the following month on suspicion of “illegally providing state secrets abroad.” Huang, a founder of 64 Tianwang Human Rights Center, has been in custody without a...

UN Experts Urge Hong Kong High Court to Uphold International Human Rights Law In Activists’ Cases

A day before the Hong Kong Final Court of Appeal’s hearing on whether it would allow pro-democracy activists Joshua Wong and Nathan Law to appeal their prison sentences, two UN experts urge the court to consider their cases “in accordance with Hong Kong’s obligations under international human...

November 6, 2017 | Statement | Citizen Participation | Hong Kong

Mother of Sichuan Activist Huang Qi Fears He May Die in Custody

Human Rights in China has learned from reliable sources that after Liu Xiaobo died in custody, the mother of Huang Qi (黄琦), the detained founder of 64 Tianwang Human Rights Center, became especially concerned that her seriously ill son may also die in detention. Huang was detained in November 2016...

July 18, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | June Fourth

Liu Xiaobo’s Death is a Stain on the CPC, International Community Must Press for Liu Xia’s Freedom

Human Rights in China mourns in great sorrow the tragic passing of Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) today, at age 61. Liu was a proponent of a nonviolent citizens’ movement and a leading advocate for constitutional democracy in China. He was a Nobel Peace laureate who envisioned a better future for the people of...

July 13, 2017 | Statement | Access to Justice

Tiananmen Mothers: Open Letter to Xi Jinping

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, HRIC issues the group’s open letter to Xi Jinping (below) regarding Liu Xiaobo. Letter to President Xi Jinping from Tiananmen Mothers Regarding Liu Xiaobo Chairman Xi Jinping: We were shocked by the devastating news that in prison, Mr. Liu Xiaobo became...

June 29, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Tiananmen Mothers | Government Accountability | Access to Justice

Tiananmen Mothers: Statement

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, HRIC issues the group’s statement (below) regarding Liu Xiaobo. Statement by the Tiananmen Mothers Regarding Liu Xiaobo When Mr. Liu Xiaobo won the Nobel Peace Prize, he had expressed that he wanted to regift the award money to us. We thanked him for his...

June 29, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Tiananmen Mothers | Government Accountability | Access to Justice

Late Diagnosis of Liu Xiaobo an Outrage, Chinese Authorities Must Account to Family & International Community

HRIC is shocked by the information that imprisoned Nobel Peace Laureate Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) is suffering from late-stage liver cancer, and outraged by the fact that it is only at this point that the Chinese authorities have released him on medical parole. We are greatly saddened by the heartbreaking...

June 26, 2017 | Statement | Access to Justice | Government Accountability

Joint NGO Letter to European Leaders Prior to EU-China Summit: Prioritize Human Rights

Download a PDF copy of this joint letter here Brussels, May 22, 2017 Re: EU China Summit Dear President Tusk, President Juncker, and High Representative Mogherini, Our organizations have documented and advocated solutions to human rights violations in China for decades. We write ahead of the June...

May 22, 2017 | Joint Statements | EU-China | International Human Rights

EU: Suspend China Human Rights Dialogue

The European Union should cancel its upcoming human rights dialogue with China and suspend the exchange until the meetings can bring genuine human rights improvements, ten human rights organizations said today. The next EU-China human rights dialogue is scheduled for June 22-23, 2017, in Brussels....

June 19, 2017 | Joint Statements | EU-China | International Human Rights

Jiang Tianyong’s Family Rejects Officially-Appointed Lawyers

In a statement issued today, family members of Jiang Tianyong (江天勇), a prominent rights lawyer disappeared in November 2016 in Changsha and who was officially arrested on suspicion of “subversion of state power” on May 31, 2017, protest the authorities’ refusal to let lawyers retained by the family...

June 15, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers | HRIC Translation

State Sovereignty Cannot Be Legitimately Invoked to Attack the Independence of UN Experts and Undermine Established Terms of Reference for Fact-finding Missions

FIDH-HRIC StatementHuman Rights Council 35th SessionItem 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on extreme povertyDelivered by Sharon Hom, June 8, 2017 Thank you, Mr. President, This statement is delivered by FIDH together with its member organization Human Rights in China. We...

June 9, 2017 | Statement | International Human Rights | International perspective | United Nations

An Essay on the 28th Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is issuing the following essay by the group to commemorate the victims of June Fourth on its 28th anniversary. An Essay on the 28th Anniversary of theJune Fourth MassacreThe Tiananmen MothersJune 1, 2017 [Translation by Human...

Wife of 709 Lawyer Fears Arrest

Below is a message sent today by Wang Qiaoling (王峭岭), wife of lawyer Li Heping (李和平), who has been in detention since July 2015 in the 709 Crackdown and is facing “subversion of state power” charges. She reports that in recent days cameras are mounted in front of her apartment building tracking her...

April 7, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers | HRIC Translation

U.S.-China Summit: “Human Rights with Chinese Characteristics” Hurt Chinese and American people

On the eve of a summit meeting on April 6-7 between leaders of two of the world’s most powerful nations, Human Rights in China urges U.S. President Donald Trump to press Chinese President Xi Jinping to stop the serious violations of human rights, attack on the rule of law, and repression of civil...

April 4, 2017 | Statement | Access to Justice | Government Accountability | International Human Rights

At UN, Seven Gov’ts Voice Concerns over Human Rights Deterioration in China

The United Nation’s main human rights body, the Human Rights Council, met for its 34th session February 27 - March 24, 2017. China was not specifically on the Council’s agenda, but governments could still make statements regarding country-specific situations under Item Four General Debate period....

March 31, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin

Call on China to ensure the right to a fair trial

Call on China to Ensure the Right to a Fair TrialA Joint Statement by Legal Professional Groups & Human Rights ngoson the forthcoming Trials ofThe cases of the 709 Crackdown To: All Press and Media (for immediate release) From:China Human Rights Lawyers Concern Group (CHRLCG)Taiwan Support...

March 23, 2017 | Joint Statements | Access to Justice

NGO Statement at Human Rights Council 34th Session, March 15, 2017

Mr. President, This statement is delivered by FIDH together with its member league HRIC. China continues to subject human rights defenders and lawyers to smear campaigns, disappearances, prolonged pretrial detentions, torture, and forced confessions. It also seeks to restrict foreign support for...

March 16, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | International Human Rights | United Nations

19 NGOs Urge Govts’ Coordinated Action at Human Rights Council on China’s Violations

To: Permanent Representatives of Member and Observer States of the UN Human Rights Council RE: Sustaining attention to human rights violations in China Excellency, After another year marked by enforced disappearances, denial of due process, and continued efforts to suppress human rights, we call on...

China’s Follow-up Response to UN Committee against Torture: There is no “suppression” of “rights defense lawyers” or “activists”

Against the backdrop of recently emerged reports and allegations of torture in detention of several lawyers who have been in custody since the July 2015 massive crackdown on lawyers and rights defenders, and the “release on bail” of another lawyer displaying severe psychological problems including...

February 2, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | HRIC Translation

709 Lawyer Released on Bail in Psychological Distress

HRIC received the following account of the “release on bail” of lawyer Li Chunfu (李春富), who was detained in the 709 crackdown in 2015. The account describes Li in a state of apparent psychological damage. It was written by Wang Qiaoling (王峭岭), wife of Li’s brother, lawyer Li Heping (李和平), and by Li...

January 13, 2017 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers | HRIC Translation

HRIC Warns Dangers of “human rights with Chinese characteristics”

In the report “The China Challenge to International Human Rights: What's at Stake?” released earlier this month, HRIC examines the PRC government’s engagement with the international human rights system in recent years and concludes that its official declarations of practicing “socialist human...

November 23, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | International Human Rights

HRIC Translation: “Lawyer Xia Lin: Such Is Our Country, and All We Can Do Now Is Fill Up Our Glasses”

“Lawyer Xia Lin: Such Is Our Country, and All We Can Do Now Is Fill Up Our Glasses” Guo Yushan, September 20, 2016 [HRIC Note: On September 22, 2016, Xia Lin (夏霖), a well-known criminal defense lawyer of the Beijing Huayi Law Firm was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment and three years’ deprivation...

September 23, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers | HRIC Translation

UN Expert: Chinese Government Needs “Genuine Accountability”

Philip Alston, the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, released a statement today in Beijing saying that while China’s achievements in alleviating extreme poverty in recent years have been “extraordinary,” that progress has been accompanied by “very high levels of inequality...

HRIC Translation: Annotated Excerpts from Hu Shigen and Zhou Shifeng's Trial Transcripts

In the first week of August 2016, the Tianjin No. 2 Intermediate People's Court tried and convicted one rights lawyer and three activists of “subversion of state power.” They were Zhai Yanmin (翟岩民), a law firm employee; Hu Shigen (胡石根), a democracy and religious freedom activist; Zhou Shifeng (周世鋒...

New HRIC Translation: Essay by Lawyer Gao Zhisheng on Imprisoned Rights Activist Guo Feixiong

On May 9, 2016, imprisoned and ailing rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (penname of Yang Maodong, (杨茂东)) began a hunger strike to protest degrading treatment in prison that included the video recording of a forced physical exam, which prison authorities threatened to post online. Guo’s repeated...

August 9, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers

HRIC Urges Independent Observers at Upcoming Trials of Lawyers and Activists in China

This week, Chinese authorities put on trial and convicted one rights lawyer and three activists on charges of “subversion of state power”: Zhai Yanmin (翟岩民), a law firm employee; Hu Shigen (胡石根), a democracy and religious freedom activist; Zhou Shifeng (周世锋), a lawyer and law firm director; and Gou...

August 5, 2016 | Statement | Access to Justice | Civil Society | Lawyers

HRIC Resigns Global Network Initiative Membership

HRIC has resigned from the Global Network Initiative (GNI), the multi-stakeholder group founded in 2008 to advance freedom of expression and privacy in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector. As a founding member and former board member of the GNI, HRIC has actively...

July 13, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Freedom of Expression | Information, Communications, Technology (ICT)

Open letter to President of European Council ahead of EU-China Summit

Download a PDF copy of this joint letter here To Mr. Donald Tusk President of the European Council Brussels, 6 July 2016 Dear President Tusk, Ahead of the 18th EU-China Summit in Beijing on 12 and 13 July 2016, FIDH, the International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), Human Rights in China (HRIC) and...

July 6, 2016 | Joint Statements | EU-China | International Human Rights

Bookseller Speaks Out for Freedom of Hong Kong People

On June 16, 2016, Lam Wing-kee, one of the five Causeway Bay booksellers who went missing last fall and later turned up in mainland custody, spoke out publicly and exposed his traumatic eight-month detention by a “Central Special Unit” (中央专案组). During this time, Lam said he was interrogated nearly...

Sister Says Guo Feixiong Will Not Stop Hunger Strike

In an account titled “Will Guo Feixiong Live Long Enough to Walk out of Prison?” (see HRIC translation and original Chinese account below), Guo’s sister, Yang Maoping (杨茂平) said that instead of letting her meet with Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄)(penname of Yang Maodong, (杨茂东)) to deliver an appeal from his...

Prison Obstructs Sister’s Visit to Guo Feixiong and Wife’s Plea to Stop Hunger Strike

HRIC has learned from an informed source that prison authorities are deliberately obstructing a visit by the elder sister of imprisoned rights defender Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (penname of Yang Maodong, (杨茂东)), who tried to deliver a letter from Guo’s wife, Zhang Qing (张青), urging Guo to stop his life-...

June 14, 2016 | Case Update | Access to Information | Access to Justice | International Human Rights

NGOs Urge Kerry and Lew to Press China on Human Rights

The Honorable John F. Kerry U.S. Department of State2201 C St NWWashington, DC 20520Via Fax: 2026472283; 2026477350 The Honorable Jacob J. LewU.S. Department of the Treasury1500 Pennsylvania Ave, NWWashington, DC 20220Via Fax: 2026220073; 2022620417 Dear Secretary Kerry and Secretary Lew, As the...

June Fourth: Support the Call for Truth, Accountability, and Compensation

As the June Fourth government crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement continues to recede into the past, and as victims’ families age and pass away, broad and more effective international actions are increasingly critical to support the families’ appeals for justice. With complete impunity for the...

June 3, 2016 | Statement | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

A New Eyewitness Account of June 3, 1989

For nearly three decades the Chinese government authorities have continued to attempt to suppress the historical truth of June Fourth. They have ignored the appeals for truth, accountability, and compensation for the killings of unarmed citizens and jailed those who wish to commemorate the victims...

June 2, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | June Fourth | HRIC Translation

Tiananmen Mothers: No Amount of Power Can Rub Out June Fourth

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China issues the following essay by the group in remembrance of their loved ones who were killed in June Fourth 1989. On the 27th Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre The Tiananmen Mothers June 1, 2016 [Translation by Human Rights in...

June 1, 2016 | Press Release | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers | HRIC Translation

Guo Feixiong on Day 11 of Hunger Strike in Prison, Wife Asks President Xi Jinping to Intervene

Zhang Qing (张青), wife of imprisoned rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (penname of Yang Maodong, (杨茂东)) reveals that Guo, already in failing health, is now on day 11 of a hunger strike. Guo began the hunger strike on May 9 to protest the degrading physical exam performed on him by prison...

China’s New FNGO Law Seeks to Divide and Conquer China’s Civil Society

The Chinese legislature passed today a law, introduced in draft in April 2015, which had elicited widespread concerns among diverse sectors of the international community about its potential to undermine the role and contributions that foreign organizations make toward China’s growing civil society...

April 28, 2016 | Statement | Civil Society | Legal System | Non-Governmental Organization (NGO)

Wife of Guo Feixiong Appeals to UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Regarding His Deteriorating Condition

The following is an open letter by Zhang Qing (张青), wife of imprisoned rights advocate Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东)), urging the UN Human Rights Council to conduct an investigation into Guo’s condition in Yangchun Prison in Guangdong Province. On April 26, Guo’s sister, Yang...

Imprisoned Rights Activist Guo Feixiong Suffering from Serious Health Issues

Yang Maoping (杨茂平), sister of imprisoned rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东)), circulated online the below account about Guo’s ill health after she visited him in Yangchun Prison, Guangdong (广东阳春监狱) this morning. Yang said that she repeated a request she first made...

April 26, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Rights Defense | HRIC Translation

Activist Tried for “Inciting Subversion” with Essays Disseminated Online

Labor activist Liu Shaoming (刘少明) was tried today at a court in Guangzhou for “inciting subversion of state power,” in a case that is almost entirely based on Liu’s writings published online. The trial ended without a verdict. Liu, a former worker who supported the 1989 Democracy Movement and has...

April 15, 2016 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Subversion Of State Power

China at the UN: Shouting Down the Critics

In a statement to the Human Rights Council today, the Chinese Ambassador to the U.N., Fu Cong, accuses “certain Western countries” of pursuing a policy of “new interventionism . . . under the banner of human rights and humanitarianism.” He also warns the Council itself from being used as a tool to...

March 15, 2016 | Press Release | Human Rights Council | International Human Rights | United Nations

Activist Yu Shiwen in Prolonged Detention without Trial, Family Urges International Attention

Yu Shiwen (于世文), an activist in the 1989 Democracy Movement, has been held without trial for more than 20 months in a detention center in Zhengzhou, Henan Province. Yu was first detained in May 2014 for organizing a 25th anniversary public memorial service to commemorate those killed during the...

UN Torture Committee Concludes Review of China with Scathing Observations

In a lengthy document released today that concludes its review of China’s compliance with the Convention against Torture, a UN expert committee says it “remains seriously concerned over consistent reports indicating that the practice of torture and ill-treatment is still deeply entrenched in the...

December 9, 2015 | Press Release | Access to Justice | Government Accountability | Torture

Guo Feixiong Challenges Tianhe Court’s Conviction and Sentence

In an appeal to the Guangzhou Municipal Intermediate People’s Court, rights defender Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), who was sentenced last week to six years of imprisonment for “gathering crowds to disrupt order in public places” and “picking quarrels and provoking troubles...

December 4, 2015 | Case Update | Access to Justice | International Human Rights | Torture

Sentencing of Guo Feixiong Adds to Serious Abuse Already Suffered

In an outrageous ruling, the Guangzhou Municipal Tianhe District People’s Court added one more charge for rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), and convicted him of both “gathering crowds to disrupt order in public places”—for which he was tried—and “picking quarrels...

Gao Yu’s Sentence Reduction a Poor Substitute for Justice

Two days after a closed-door hearing on the appeal by 71-year-old veteran journalist Gao Yu (高瑜), the Beijing High People’s Court ruled today to reduce her sentence by two years. In a separate decision, the Beijing Municipal No. 3 Intermediate People’s Court, the court of first instance, approved...

Stark Contrast in China’s UN Torture Review: Pointed Questions, Non-responsive Answers

In the second and concluding session of China’s UN review for its compliance with the Convention Against Torture, the Chinese delegation resorted to a familiar formula in responding to the detailed questions raised by the Committee against Torture experts: long lists of partial and out-of-context...

China Faces Scrutiny in UN Torture Review

In Geneva today, 40 representatives of the Chinese government faced three hours of hard-hitting questions from UN independent experts regarding China’s implementation of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Today’s session began China’s...

China Claims It Has Always Encouraged And Supported Lawyers

Next Tuesday and Wednesday, November 17 and 18, in Geneva, the UN Committee Against Torture will review China on its implementation of the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT), which it ratified in 1988. This review is taking place in a year...

China’s Responses to List of Issues from UN Committee Against Torture: HRIC English Translation

In advance of the upcoming UN Committee Against Torture’s review of China, Chinese authorities recently submitted their responses to the list of issues raised by the Committee in June 2015. Scheduled to take place on November 17 and 18 in Geneva, this will be the Committee’s fifth review of China...

October 22, 2015 | HRIC Bulletin | Government Accountability

Authorities Widen Crackdown on Lawyers to Include Their Children

Liu Xiaoyuan (刘晓原), a lawyer with the Fengrui Law Firm—which is a chief target of the large-scale government crackdown on rights defense lawyers since July of this year—discloses that public security authorities have refused to process his son’s application for a passport to go abroad for graduate...

October 16, 2015 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Justice | Lawyers | HRIC Translation

Subversion Trials of Two Democracy Activists End without Verdicts

In two separate proceedings today in a Hangzhou court that lasted about two-and-a-half-hours each, longtime democracy activists Chen Shuqing (陈树庆) and Lü Gengsong (吕耿松), members of the China Democracy Party’s Zhejiang Committee, were tried for “subversion of state power.” Both have been imprisoned...

September 29, 2015 | Case Update | Access to Justice | Subversion Of State Power | Democratic And Political Reform

Letter to President Obama

President Barack ObamaThe White House1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NWWashington, D.C. 20500 We write regarding the state visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping on September 24-25, 2015. Our organizations have worked to help promote and defend human rights in China for decades, and are deeply concerned...

HRIC Commentary: U.S.–China Human Rights Dialogue

The U.S.-China Human Rights Dialogue, scheduled for August 13-14, will be held during what is widely viewed as the harshest crackdown in China since 1989. While China is a powerful global player that the United States needs to engage with on shared security and trade interests, this is a crucial...

August 12, 2015 | Statement | Bilateral Dialogue | International Human Rights

China: Open letter to States for joint action to address worsening crackdown on human rights defenders and lawyers

To: Permanent Representatives of Member Statesand Observer States of the UN Human Rights Council Your Excellency, We urge your delegation to make statements, both jointly and individually, to address the unprecedented crackdown on human rights defenders and lawyers in China – indeed on Chinese...

August 10, 2015 | Joint Statements | Government Accountability | Lawyers

Joint Letter Regarding Health of Imprisoned Journalist Gao Yu

August 5, 2015 President Xi JinpingGeneral Secretary OfficeCentral Committee of the Communist Party of ChinaZhongnanhai XimenFuyou StreetXicheng DistrictBeijing 100017People’s Republic of China Mr. Meng JianzhuSecretary of Central Politics and Law Commission14 Beichizi StreetDongcheng District,...

With China, IOC Turns Its Back on Human Rights

The International Olympic Committee's decision to award the 2022 Winter Olympics Host City to Beijing blatantly ignores the current government crackdown of unprecedented scale targeting human rights lawyers and defenders in China, as well as a water shortage that has already reached crisis levels....

July 31, 2015 | Statement | Government Accountability | Olympics

HRIC Urges IOC to Postpone Host City Election for 2022 Olympics

In 2001, the International Olympics Committee voted to award the 2008 Olympics to China, despite its human rights record and the fact that Beijing achieved a top rating in only one out of ten selection categories. In the nearly decade and a half since, not only has China failed to improved its...

July 28, 2015 | Statement | Government Accountability | Olympics

Open Letter to IOC President Thomas Bach and Response

Thomas BachPresidentInternational Olympic CommitteeChâteau de VidyCase postale 3561001 LausanneSwitzerlandVIA Fax: +41 21 621 62 16 (Lausanne)VIA Email & Fax: +60 32 333 28 82 (Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre) Open Letter to IOC President Thomas Bach [see response] July 28, 2015 Dear Mr....

July 28, 2015 | Statement | Government Accountability | Olympics

Mass Suppression of Lawyers Reveals True Nature of Xi’s “Rule by Law”

In less than a week, from July 9 to date, Chinese authorities have disappeared, detained, or questioned at least 159 lawyers and activists throughout China. The lawyers, including Wang Yu (王宇), Zhou Shifeng (周世鋒), Li Heping (李和平), and Sui Muqing (隋牧青), are known for their rights defense work, such...

July 14, 2015 | Press Work | Access to Justice | Enforced Disappearance | Lawyers

After forty years: Do human rights have a place in China-EU strategic ambitions?

Click here to download a PDF version of the open letter. To the EU and Chinese representatives to the 17th EU-China Summit: Marking the 40th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations, the 17th Summit between the European Union and China that will take place on Monday 29 June in Brussels...

June 27, 2015 | Joint Statements

Case Highlight for 2015 UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Torture is a pervasive problem in China. To mark the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, HRIC has translated the below case seeking compensation for the alleged torture of a man who died in police custody in China. The case is a concrete, individual example of the issues people...

June 26, 2015 | Press Work | International Human Rights | Torture | United Nations

NGOs to Kerry and Lew: Raise Human Rights Concerns in Upcoming Dialogue with China

In an open letter, Human Rights in China joins eight NGOs in urging Secretary of State John Kerry and Secretary of the Treasury Jacob Lew to clearly voice their concern, during the Strategic and Economic Dialogue next week, over human rights deterioration in China, and to stress that such...

In Statement, Journalist Shi Tao Protests Deletion of WeChat Contents

In a statement of protest (see below), Shi Tao, a journalist who served eight years of a ten-year prison term, says that contents in his social networking WeChat account were deleted in recent days, in the lead up to the 26th anniversary of the June Fourth crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement....

Tiananmen Mothers Quote Le Keqiang, Urge Leaders to Take Historical Responsibility for June Fourth

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is issuing the following essay by the group to commemorate the victims of June Fourth on its 26th anniversary. Quoting Premier Li Keqiang’s March 2015 speech that Japan’s leaders today bear historical responsibility for Japan’s...

Heavy Sentence for Gao Yu Exposes Hollowness of “Rule by Law” in China

HRIC strongly condemns the seven-year prison sentence for Gao Yu (高瑜), the 71-year-old independent journalist convicted of “illegally providing state secrets abroad.” Gao is also subject to one year of post-release deprivation of political rights. The sentence was announced by the Beijing Municipal...

April 17, 2015 | Statement | Freedom of Expression | Freedom of Press

Intensified Challenges for Civil Society in Year since Cao Shunli’s Death

On the one-year anniversary of her death, Human Rights in China remembers and honors Cao Shunli (曹顺利), a tireless advocate of government transparency and greater citizen participation in China’s human rights processes. Cao died in a Beijing hospital in March 2014 after six months in detention for “...

March 14, 2015 | Statement | Civil Society | International Human Rights | Open Government Information

Ailing Shanghai Petitioner Ma Yalian Starts Hunger Strike in Detention

Human Rights in China has received information that long-time petitioner Ma Yalian (马亚莲), taken into custody in Beijing and brought back to Shanghai, began a hunger strike in an unofficial detention facility—a “black jail”—in a suburb of Shanghai to protest mistreatment by detention authorities....

March 11, 2015 | Press Release | Rights Defense

Peter Gabriel, Pussy Riot & More Project Photos, Messages of Support to Hong Kong Demonstrators

As Hong Kong protesters stand up to recent heavy handed police tactics in clearing sections of the Mong Kok Occupy site, Peter Gabriel, Pussy Riot, Iron & Wine, and others have sent photos and messages of support which are being projected on the Lennon Wall in the Admiralty District of downtown...

January 28, 2015 | Press Release | Citizen Activism | Hong Kong | International Human Rights

Li Yufang Released, Mistreated During Imprisonment

Shanghai rights defender, Li Yufang (李玉芳), was released from prison on December 18, 2014 after completing a one-year sentence for “obstructing official business.” Li Yufang told Human Rights in China that on the day of her release, the vice-president of the Shanghai Municipal Intermediate People’s...

December 19, 2014 | Case Update | Land, Property, Housing

Hong Kong: “It’s Just the Beginning”

Today, Hong Kong police cleared out the Admiralty site of a 74-day peaceful mass civil disobedience movement pressing for genuine universal suffrage. But instead of the closing of a troubling political chapter, hoped for by both the local and central governments, the Umbrella Movement in fact was “...

December 11, 2014 | Statement | Citizen Activism | Democratic And Political Reform | Hong Kong

Rights Activist Guo Feixiong’s Trial Ends without Verdict

The nearly 18-hour trial of rights activists Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), and Sun Desheng (孙德胜) ended without verdicts for the defendants. The activists were tried in the Guangzhou Municipal Tianhe District People’s Court (广州市天河区法院 ) for “gathering crowds to disrupt order...

November 28, 2014 | Case Update | Rights Defense

UN Women’s Rights Committee Highlights Key Challenges Facing China’s Civil Society

In a report on the situation of women’s rights in China, a United Nations expert committee advances dozens of recommendations aimed at addressing their concerns, which, if adopted, would strengthen China’s civil society, including: availability and transparency of data on policies and practices...

November 12, 2014 | Press Work

At UN, China Faced Tough Questions on Women’s Rights, Gets Poor Grade for Universal Suffrage for Hong Kong

Today in Geneva, the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women posed hard-hitting questions on the progress of women’s rights in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao. In a comprehensive exchange with the Chinese delegation, the independent experts on the Committee raised a...

Zhejiang Activist Chen Shuqing Formally Arrested

HRIC has learned that, Chen Shuqing (陈树庆), a core member of the China Democracy Party’s Zhejiang Committee, has been formally arrested. The official charge cannot be confirmed at this point, but Chen has been in criminal detention for more than a month on charges of “subversion of state power.”...

October 22, 2014 | Case Update | Democratic And Political Reform | Subversion Of State Power

Lawyer Says Court Violates the Law in Ruling on Zhang Lin’s Appeal without a Hearing

On October 20, the Bengbu Intermediate People's Court, Anhui Province, upheld the first instance trial verdict for activist, Zhang Lin (张林). Zhang was found guilty of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place” by the Bengshan District People’s Court, Bengbu, on September 5 and was...

October 21, 2014 | Case Update | Freedom of Expression | Rule Of Law

Hong Kongers Standing Up: A Historic Test and Opportunity for Beijing

In 1989, millions of democracy and labor activists and other citizens throughout China demanded reforms. The leaders responded with tanks and violence and then attempted to silence demands for political reform with the benefits of economic liberalization. What the Chinese people got are...

Another Zhejiang Democracy Activist in Custody for “Subversion”

Less than a month following the August 13 arrest of Lü Gengsong (吕耿松) on “subversion of state power,” another core member of the China Democracy Party’s Zhejiang Committee, Chen Shuqing (陈树庆), was detained on the same charge. Chen’s wife, Zhang Donghong (张东红), told HRIC that at 3:30 p.m. on...

September 15, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Democratic And Political Reform | Subversion Of State Power

Guo Feixiong’s Trial Opened But Did Not Proceed

Today, the Guangzhou Municipal Tianhe District People’s Court opened the trial of rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), and Sun Desheng (孙德胜), but did not proceed as lawyers for the defendants did not appear in court in protest of what they alleged were serious...

September 12, 2014 | Case Update | Rights Defense | Rule Of Law

Zhejiang Activist Lü Gengsong Arrested for "Subversion of State Power"

HRIC has learned that that Lü Gengsong (吕耿松), a core member of the China Democracy Party’s Zhejiang Committee, was arrested today and is being charged with “subversion of state power” (颠覆国家政权罪). He was criminally detained on suspicion of the same charge on July 7, and is being held at the Hangzhou...

August 13, 2014 | Case Update | Democratic And Political Reform | Subversion Of State Power

China Issues New Regulations on Mobile Text and Voice Messaging Services (HRIC Translation)

(Updated August 12, 2014) The State Internet Information Office (国家互联网信息办公室), the top government agency that oversees online content management, issued, on August 7, a set of regulations on mobile instant messaging services—such as WeChat (Tencent), Yixin (NetEase), and Feixin (China Mobile)—...

New Rules Tighten Control on Use of News Information (HRIC Translation)

A set of rules aimed at countering the “abuse” of information obtained by news personnel in the course of news gathering and other related professional activities went into effect on June 30, 2014. (See HRIC’s English translation below.) The rules, issued by the State Administration of Press,...

Court Upholds Prison Sentences for Two Citizen Activists

The Beijing Municipal No. 1 Intermediate People's Court today upheld the sentences of New Citizens Movement advocates Ding Jiaxi (丁家喜) and Li Wei (李蔚). In April this year, both were found guilty of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place” (聚众扰乱公共场所秩序) by the Beijing Municipal Haidian...

July 18, 2014 | Case Update | Asset Transparency | Corruption | New Citizens Movement

Shanghai Petitioner Li Yufang Convicted, Sentenced to One Year

Shanghai petitioner Li Yufang (李玉芳), who had petitioned for more than a decade for compensation for the forced requisition of her family home, was found guilty of “obstructing official business.” Li was tried at the Yangpu District People's Court in Shanghai on July 4, 2014, and received a sentence...

July 14, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin

Lü Gengsong Criminally Detained on Suspicion of “Subversion of State Power”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information that Zhejiang China Democracy Party Committee member, Lü Gengsong (吕耿松), has been criminally detained on suspicion of “subversion of state power.” According to the detention notice, he is currently being held at the Hangzhou Detention center. Lü...

July 8, 2014 | Case Update | Democratic And Political Reform | Subversion Of State Power

Organizers of June Fourth Commemorative Event Officially Arrested

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information that the couple, Chen Wei (陈卫) and Yu Shiwen (于世文), organizers of one of the first public June Fourth Commemorative events in mainland China last year, have been officially arrested for “picking quarrels and provoking troubles.” Lawyer Ji...

July 3, 2014 | Case Update | June Fourth

Beijing Court Upholds “Disrupting Public Order” Verdicts of Two Citizen Activists

Without holding hearings, the Beijing No. 1 Intermediate People's Court ruled against the appeals by citizen activists Zhao Changqing (赵常青) and Zhang Baocheng (张宝成) and upheld their first-instance verdicts. They were both found guilty of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place” (...

Harsh Prison Terms for Advocates Undermine Official Anti-Corruption Efforts

In yet another example of the Chinese authorities’ undermining their own stated goal to fight corruption by punishing citizens calling for disclosure of official assets, a court in Jiangxi Province today sentenced three advocates to prison terms ranging from six and a half years to three years. The...

June 19, 2014 | Press Work | Asset Transparency | New Citizens Movement | Rule Of Law

Through Video, Tiananmen Mothers Speak Out on 25th Anniversary of June Fourth

In the lead up to the 25th anniversary of a horrific episode of government-ordered military violence against unarmed civilians, the Chinese authorities have redoubled their efforts—by criminal detention and other means of control—to suppress remembrances of what happened in June 1989. The Tiananmen...

May 30, 2014 | Press Release | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Experts Raised Key Systemic Issues in UN Rights Review of China

In Geneva on May 8, in a review of China’s implementation of a broad range of obligations under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, independent experts on a UN committee raised a host of questions on some deeply-rooted and highly-charged systemic issues linked to...

China Escalates Persecution before 25th Anniversary of June Fourth

Human Rights in China has learned that Chinese authorities are preventing Ding Zilin (丁子霖), a key member of the Tiananmen Mothers, and her husband from returning to Beijing until after June 4, the 25th anniversary of the violent government crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement. According to...

May 8, 2014 | Press Release | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

China to Face Another UN Rights Review

On Thursday, May 8, at the United Nations in Geneva, a committee of 18 international experts will review China’s implementation of its obligations to protect and advance a broad set of rights under the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. This will be China’s second...

Xu Wanping Freed after Nine Years in prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from informed sources that Chongqing veteran dissident Xu Wanping (许万平) was released today after serving nine years of a 12-year sentence for “inciting subversion of state power.” Xu was released today at 6:30 a.m. and taken to his home by prison authorities...

April 29, 2014 | Case Update | Dissidents | June Fourth

International Human Rights Award Honors Cao Shunli

An international jury of ten prominent human rights organizations has selected the late Cao Shunli (曹顺利) as one of three finalists for the 2014 Martin Ennals Award for Human Rights Defenders. The award recognizes defenders who have shown deep commitment to human rights in the face of great personal...

April 23, 2014 | Press Work | Civil Society | International Human Rights | United Nations

Four More New Citizens Movement Advocates Convicted, Sentenced to Between Two and Three-and-a-Half Years

Four citizen activists involved in public calls for high-ranking officials to reveal their assets in 2013 have each been found guilty of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place.” Two of them—Ding Jiaxi (丁家喜) and Zhao Changqing (赵常青)—were accused of planning street actions in the early...

“June Fourth at 25: Resisting Enforced Amnesia, Building a Just Future”

Today, HRIC launches a new advocacy initiative: “June Fourth at 25: Resisting Enforced Amnesia, Building a Just Future.” Since the military crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement, known as June Fourth, HRIC has provided advocacy support and solidarity to individuals and groups—particularly the...

April 10, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Lawyers and citizens declare hunger strike outside Qixing Detention Center, Jiangsanjiang, Heilongjiang, to protest unlawful detention of rights lawyers and citizens. March 25, 2014.

Lawyers and Citizens Report Abuses by Jiansanjiang Authorities

In the days following the March 21 detention of four lawyers—Jiang Tianyong (江天勇), Tang Jitian (唐吉田), Wang Cheng (王成), and Zhang Junjie (张俊杰)—and approximately 20 citizens, in Jiansanjiang City, Heilongjiang Province, the authorities rounded up and questioned scores of other lawyers and citizen...

Tan Zuoren and wife Wang Qinghua, April 2014 Photo Credit: www.64tianwang.com More photos at: http://www.64tianwang.com/bencandy.php?fid=10&aid=16925

Released Sichuan Rights Activist Tan Zuoren Reportedly Taken to Undisclosed Location in Chongqing

Media reports and information available online indicate that upon his release from prison today, Sichuan environmental activist and writer Tan Zuoren (谭作人) did not return to his home in Chengdu but was taken by the authorities to an undisclosed location in Chongqing. Tan served a five-year term in...

March 27, 2014 | Press Work | Environment

HRIC Urges International Attention: Lawyers and Citizens Detained in Heilongjiang, Lawyers on Hunger Strike in Protest

On March 21, 2014, four rights defense lawyers, Jiang Tianyong (江天勇), Tang Jitian (唐吉田), Wang Cheng (王成) , and Zhang Junjie (张俊杰), as well as an unknown number of citizens were detained by police authorities in Jiansanjiang, Heilongjiang Province (黑龙江省建三江). Their detention took place one day after...

June 4 March Applicant Sentenced to 18 Months, Lawyers Beaten Outside Courthouse

The Changshu Municipal People’s Court in Jiangsu Province today sentenced citizen activist, Gu Yimin (顾义民), to 18 months’ imprisonment for “inciting subversion of state power.” In addition, Gu will be subjected to two years of post-release deprivation of political rights. Head injury of He Huixin,...

March 24, 2014 | Case Update | June Fourth

Hu Hailong speaking at UNHRC (screen capture from webtv.un.org)

China Deploys Procedural Challenges to Control Civil Society Voices at Human Rights Council Session

On March 20, during the Human Rights Council’s consideration of China’s Universal Periodic Review outcome report, China exhibited a hostility towards civil society voices that made clear its determination to control who can speak, and the content and form of that expression. When an NGO attempted...

March 22, 2014 | Statement | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Cao Shunli’s Living Legacy: International and Domestic Responses

On March 14, 2014, Cao Shunli’s (曹顺利) family arrived at the 309 Military Hospital in Beijing to find that Cao had already died. Since she was transferred there from an emergency medical center on February 20, she had been on a ventilator and non-responsive. There have been growing concerns...

March 18, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Rights Defender Cao Shunli Died in Hospital in Beijing, Lawyer Barred from Viewing Body

Human rights defender Cao Shunli (曹顺利) died today in Beijing. Cao, who had been in police custody since September 2013 and suffering from various medical conditions, was admitted to intensive care at the Beijing Qinghe 999 Hospital last month, and later transferred to the 309 Military Hospital...

March 14, 2014 | Statement | Civil Society | International Human Rights

New Regulations Implementing State Secrets Law Offer No Greater Transparency

On March 1, the Regulations on the Implementation of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Guarding State Secrets will go into effect. When first announced on February 2, the Xinhua News Agency presented them as “an effort to boost government transparency.” However, the regulations, read...

February 28, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Government transparency | Information Control | State Secrets

Doctor Says Cao Shunli on Life Support, Family Made to Sign Medical Parole

Rights activist Liu Xiaofang (刘晓芳) who visited Cao Shunli (曹顺利) at the 309 Military Hospital told HRIC that a Dr. Su there said that Cao is on life support and her condition is terminal. Liu said that Cao did not respond when she called out to her loudly through a glass window. According to Liu, Dr...

February 28, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Rights Activist Hu Jia: Doctor told Cao Shunli’s Family that Cao’s death is Imminent

Rights activist Hu Jia tweeted the following message at 10:47pm Beijing time: “Today, February 28, a doctor from the tuberculosis institute at the 309 Military Hospital notified Cao Shunli’s family that Cao’s vital signs are being supported by a ventilator; her many organs are gradually failing. A...

February 28, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Tiananmen Mothers Urge Chinese Legislators to Follow Their Conscience and Resolve June Fourth Issue

In an open letter to members of China’s legislature and political advisory body, the Tiananmen Mothers urge them to break the 25-year government silence on the June 4, 1989 military crackdown on the Democracy Movement that year, and begin discussion on a resolution. The letter calls on the deputies...

February 28, 2014 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Lawyers and Activists Urge Police to Make Public Cao Shunli’s Condition

Cao Shunli’s (曹顺利) lawyer Wang Yu (王宇) and other lawyers and activists issued an urgent appeal to the Beijing police to make public information on Cao Shunli’s condition and undertake an investigation for liability. The appeal alleges that authorities at the Chaoyang District Detention Center,...

February 24, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Hospital Says Cao Shunli is “Deeply Unconscious,” More than 20 Rights Defenders in Custody

Beijing rights defender Wang Ling (王玲) told Human Rights in China that she and more than 20 other rights defenders attempted to visit Cao Shunli this afternoon, February 21, at the 309 Military Hospital in the Haidian District of Beijing but were prevented from entering the intensive care unit to...

February 21, 2014 | Case Update | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Rights Activist Cao Shunli in Intensive Care

Human Rights in China received information that rights activist Cao Shunli (曹顺利), who has been in custody since September 2013 and suffering from various medical conditions, was in intensive care at the Beijing Qinghe 999 Hospital earlier today. She was later transferred to the 309 Military...

February 20, 2014 | Case Update | Civil Society | International Human Rights

Family Rejects Authorities’ Report of Suicide of Democracy Activist’s Father

On Wednesday, January 29, 2014, just hours after Xue Fushun (薛福顺), 52, the father of China Democracy Party member Xue Mingkai (薛明凯), sought protection at the Qufu Municipal Procuratorate, Shandong Province, domestic security officials informed his wife, Wang Shuqing (王书清 ), that he had “committed...

February 3, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Dissidents | Police Brutality | Black Jail

Lawyers Dismissed or Withdrawn in Protest of Unfair Trials of Three Citizen Activists

Four participants of the New Citizens Movement—Ding Jiaxi (丁家喜), Li Wei (李蔚), Zhang Baocheng (张宝成), and Yuan Dong (袁冬)—were tried in two separate trials on Monday, January 27 at the Beijing Haidian District People’s Court. The proceedings marked the end of a series of trials of citizen activists...

January 31, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | New Citizens Movement

Four Years for New Citizens Movement Advocate Xu Zhiyong

Today the Beijing Municipal No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court sentenced Xu Zhiyong (许志永), a leading advocate of the New Citizens Movement, to four years’ imprisonment for “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place,” one year short of the maximum penalty for the charge. Xu was tried last...

January 26, 2014 | Case Update | New Citizens Movement

Trial of Guangzhou Activist Liu Yuandong Ends without Verdict

As in the trials of several other activists this week, the trial of Liu Yuandong (刘远东), Guangzhou-based activist and businessman, ended today without a verdict. Liu is charged with “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place” (聚众扰乱公共场所秩序) and “false declaration of registered capital” (...

January 24, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Citizen Participation

Zhao Changqing Trial Adjourns as Defense Protests Procedural Problems

At his trial at the Haidian District Court in Beijing today, veteran activist Zhao Changqing (赵常青) dismissed his two defense lawyers on the ground that serious procedural violations by the prosecution and the court had made it impossible for him to have a fair trial and for his lawyers to mount an...

January 23, 2014 | Case Update | New Citizens Movement

Court Upholds Punishment for “Inciting Illegal Assembling” for June Fourth Commemoration Applicant

In a ruling today that has implications for Chinese citizens’ right to hold assemblies or just informal gatherings in public, a court in Guangzhou upholds the police’s punishment of Li Weiguo (李维国), a Guangzhou resident, for inviting people in May 2013 to witness his delivery of applications to...

January 22, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | June Fourth

Xu Zhiyong Trial Ends without Verdict, Foreign Journalists Attacked

The trial of Xu Zhiyong (许志永), a key advocate of the New Citizens Movement, ended today without a verdict. Xu, a constitutional law scholar and vocal supporter of education equality and asset transparency, is charged with “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place,” and faces up to five...

January 23, 2014 | Case Update | Asset Transparency | New Citizens Movement

Shanghai Petitioner Li Yufang Arrested for “Obstructing Official Business”

Shanghai petitioner Li Yufang (李玉芳) was arrested on January 2, 2014, on the charge of “obstructing official business,” according to her husband, Chen Ruiming (陈瑞明). Li was first detained on December 19, 2013, by the Yangpu District branch of the Shanghai Public Security Bureau, following an...

January 10, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin | Land, Property, Housing

Lawyer Liu Shihui Detained by Police during Inquiry of Activists in Custody

Human Rights in China has received information that Guangdong lawyer Liu Shihui (刘士辉) was detained on Sunday afternoon, January 5, by authorities at the Dadongjie police substation in the Yuexiu District of Guangzhou. According to information available online, he has since been transferred out of...

January 6, 2014 | HRIC Bulletin

Witnesses for Anhui Rights Defender Zhang Lin Prevented from Attending Trial

Three witnesses scheduled to testify at the trial of rights defender Zhang Lin (张林) were held by police at different guesthouses and were prevented from going to the trial, according to Zhang’s mother, Mrs. Duan RuiHua (段瑞华). The three witnesses were Li Wenge (李文革), Qian Jin (钱进), and Wang Tingjin...

December 18, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin | Children | Education

Lawyers Protest Persecution on Unprecedented Scale

In a statement that cites Chinese laws and United Nations standards, a group of 132 lawyers and legal professionals call on central government authorities to stop abuses of lawyers committed by local authorities. In a joint statement, the Chinese Human Rights Lawyers group outlines the following...

December 16, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin | Chinese Law | Lawyers | Legal System

Liu Ping’s Final Statement at Trial

The trial of three asset transparency advocates—Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei Zhongping (魏忠平), and Li Sihua (李思华)—concluded today at Yushui District People’s Court in Xinyu, Jiangxi Province. The court did not issue a ruling. All three were tried for “illegal assembly”; Liu and Wei were charged with the...

December 5, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin | Administrative Detention | Black Jail | Labor Rights

Supporter of Asset Transparency Advocates Kept in Iron Cage for 25 Hours

Rights defender Zhou Li (周莉) told Human Rights in China that she was taken into custody early morning December 3 from outside the Yushui District People’s Court in Xinyu, Jiangxi Province. Zhou, based in Beijing, had gone to the court to show her support for Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei Zhongping (魏忠平), and...

December 4, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin | Arbitrary Detention | Civil Society

Lawyers, Relatives Assaulted on Day Two of Resumed Trial of Asset Transparency Advocates

On day two of the trial of three asset transparency advocates in Jiangxi, eyewitness accounts and Weibo posts describe a large-scale verbal and physical assault on the defendants’ lawyers and relatives outside the Yushui District People’s Court in Xinyu, Jiangxi Province. Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei...

December 4, 2013 | Case Update | Lawyers | Microblogs (Weibo)

Netizen Info on Resumed Trial of Three Asset Transparency Advocates

The trial of Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei Zhongping (魏忠平), and Li Sihua (李思华) resumed today at the Yushui District People’s Court in Xinyu, Jiangxi Province. It is scheduled to continue tomorrow. HRIC has compiled and translated the following Weibo postings by the defendants’ supporters and lawyers, and Liu...

December 3, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin | Microblogs (Weibo)

Lawyers Protest Unlawful Security Check by Local Courts

In a public statement, 132 lawyers, including many of the most active in rights defense in China, protest what they called the “barbaric manhandling” of lawyer Zhang Jun (张军) on November 27 by personnel at a local court in Wuhan, Hubei Province. Zhang went to the court to file a case and refused to...

December 1, 2013 | HRIC Bulletin

Cao Shunli Ill in Detention, Refuses to Sign Official Arrest Document

Lawyer Wang Yu (王宇) met with detained rights defender Cao Shunli (曹顺利) for more than an hour on Wednesday, October 30. Wang, who has been retained by Cao’s family to represent Cao, was the first person outside law enforcement who has had any contact with Cao since her disappearance on September 14...

October 31, 2013 | Case Update | Civil Society

In Fourth Month of Detention, Guo Feixiong Allowed First Meeting with Lawyer

According to informed sources, rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) met with lawyer Chen Guangwu (陈光武) on November 14, the first such meeting permitted Guo since his detention on August 8. Guo was officially arrested on September 12 and is accused of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public...

November 15, 2013 | Case Update | Asset Transparency

Court Upholds Policeman Wang Dengchao’s Embezzlement Conviction

On November 13, 2013, the Shenzhen Municipal Intermediate People's Court upheld the “embezzlement” conviction of police officer Wang Dengchao (王登朝) and overturned the “obstructing official business” conviction, which had carried a one-year prison term. On the embezzlement conviction, the court...

November 14, 2013 | Case Update | Rights Defense | Politics

China Elected to UN Human Rights Council

In an election held in New York today, the United Nations General Assembly elected China to the 47-member Human Rights Council, the UN's top human rights body, for a three-year term (2014-2016). “China must uphold the highest human rights standards not only required by international human rights...

November 12, 2013 | Press Work | Rule Of Law | United Nations

HRIC Urges China to Release Rights Activists to Show Human Rights Commitment

In advance of the November 12 Human Rights Council elections, HRIC urges China to honor the pledge it has made for its candidacy: “to protect the rights of the people to be informed of, participate in, express views about and oversee government affairs.” In an open letter delivered to China’s...

November 5, 2013 | Press Work | Human Rights Council | United Nations

Shanghai Rights Defenders Taken by Police during Protest of Shen Yong’s Death

Sources told Human Rights in China that on October 28, Shanghai police took away nearly 100 protestors who were seeking information on the cause of activist Shen Yong’s (沈勇) death. Shen, 54, became active in rights defense after his home was forcibly demolished. According to his son, Shen Yaming (...

October 29, 2013 | Press Work | Black Jail | Police Brutality

Trial Adjourns for Asset Transparency Advocates over Right to Proper Defense

An informed source told Human Rights in China that on October 28, the first day of the trial of three asset transparency advocates in Jiangxi Province—Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei Zhongping (魏忠平), and Li Sihua (李思华)—the defendants and their families terminated the client-lawyer relationship in protest of the...

October 28, 2013 | Press Work | Asset Transparency

Rights Defenders Oppose China’s Membership in UN Human Rights Council

Two hundred and eighteen rights defenders in Shanghai signed a public appeal urging the United Nations not to elect China to the 47-member Human Rights Council. The election will be held on November 12 among UN member states in the General Assembly. China is one of the five candidates for the four...

October 25, 2013 | Press Work | Human Rights Council | United Nations

UN Rights Review of China: Citizens’ Crucial Role

“Whether the shoes fit, only the person knows,” states the Chinese delegation today in its closing remarks to the UN Human Rights Council at the second Universal Periodic Review of China’s human rights record by UN member states. The Chinese delegation then elaborated: “The Chinese are in the best...

October 22, 2013 | Press Work | Citizen Activism | Human Rights Council | United Nations

Rights Lawyer and Client Detained During Attempt to Meet with Detainee

An informed source told Human Rights in China that Tang Jitian (唐吉田), a rights defense lawyer, has been placed under administrative detention in Jixi City, Heilongjiang Province, for "disrupting order at a work unit" (扰乱单位秩序). The detention noteice, dated October 17, indicates that he is being held...

October 20, 2013 | Press Work | Administrative Detention | Lawyers

UN Experts Voice Serious Concern as China Faces Human Rights Review

In a year when the authorities have intensified their crackdown on citizen calls for greater government accountability and citizen participation, China will undergo its second Universal Periodic Review (UPR)* of its human rights record by the United Nations Human Rights Council next Tuesday,...

October 18, 2013 | Press Work | International Human Rights | United Nations | Human Rights Council

Shanghai Rights Defenders Urge UN to Investigate Rights Violation of Cao Shunli, Chen Jianfang

Two hundred and thirty-five individuals in Shanghai signed an appeal dated October 13 to the United Nations regarding Cao Shunli (曹顺利) and Chen Jianfang (陈建芳). Cao was disappeared on September 14 from the Beijing Airport while en route to Geneva to attend a training course on international human...

October 17, 2013 | Press Work

Lawyers Call for Release of Three Asset Transparency Advocates, Challenge Legality of Trial Delay

In an October 14 statement, the lawyers for Liu Ping (刘萍), Wei Zhongping (魏忠平), and Li Sihua (李思华)—three asset transparency advocates in Jiangxi Province facing trial—accused the trial court of exceeding the three-month legal limit for trying and rendering verdicts on their clients’ cases, after...

October 15, 2013 | Press Work

Cao Shunli: UPR Submission and other Documents

Rights defender Cao Shunli (曹顺利), who has been missing since September 14, has been pressing the Chinese government in recent years to include the participation of petitioners and rights defenders in a process that affects the entire Chinese society: improving human rights. She has focused her...

October 8, 2013 | Press Work

Ni Yulan Calls for Attention from International Community on Crackdown in China

Ni Yulan, October 5, 2013 Ni Yulan and Dong Jiqin, October 7, 2013 Housing rights advocate Ni Yulan (倪玉兰) left the Beijing Women’s Prison around 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 7, 2013, after completing a two-year-and six-month sentence for “picking quarrels and provoking troubles.” According...

October 7, 2013 | Press Work

Police Use Cao Shunli’s Disappearance to Intimidate MFA Sit-in Petitioners

Sources told Human Rights in China that on the morning of October 3, more than a dozen petitioners and rights defenders, including a 77-year-old woman, engaged in a sit-in in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were taken by police to the Chaoyangmenwai Police Sub-station (朝阳门外派出所) for...

October 3, 2013 | Press Work

No Verdict on Gu Yimin “Inciting Subversion” Trial

Sources told Human Rights in China that the September 29 trial of Jiangsu citizen Gu Yimin (顾义民) for “inciting subversion of state power” ended without a verdict. The trial was conducted at the Changshu Municipal People’s Court in Jiangsu Province. Gu, 37, was arrested in June after he posted...

September 30, 2013 | Press Work

UN Committee Concludes Rigorous Review of China’s Implementation of the Convention on Rights of the Child

On the second day of a two-day review, the PRC delegation responded to detailed questions posed by the Committee on the Rights of the Child, often citing formal law and statistics, and, at times, with anecdotal personal stories. Questions from the experts on the Committee covered numerous areas,...

September 27, 2013 | Press Work | International Human Rights | United Nations

Jiangsu Citizen Gu Yimin to be Tried for “Inciting Subversion of State Power”

Sources told Human Rights in China that Gu Yimin (顾义民), of Changshu City, Jiangsu Province, will be tried on Sunday, September 29, for “inciting subversion of state power,” in the Changshu People’s Court. Gu, 37, was detained on June 1 and formally arrested on June 14 after he posted online...

September 27, 2013 | Press Work

China Faces Tough Questions on Its Protection of Children’s Rights from UN Committee

On day one of a two-day review session, independent experts on the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child raised a wide range of concerns and posed detailed questions to the Chinese delegation on China’s implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). The delegation responded...

September 26, 2013 | Press Work

Lawyers Say Detention of Guo Feixiong Unlawful, Call for His Immediate Release

In a letter to the police authorities holding rights defender Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄, the penname of Yang Maodong (杨茂东)), Guo’s lawyers stated that the period of Guo’s detention without formal arrest has far exceeded the lawful time limit for such detention, and that he should be released immediately....

September 25, 2013 | Press Work

Task Force Urges Business-Human Rights-Policy Linkage in Canada’s Asia Strategy

“The Government of Canada should exercise high-level political leadership and consistent engagement with its counterparts in Asia on human rights,” says a report published today by the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada), a policy think tank. The report, “Advancing Canada’s Engagement...

September 25, 2013 | Press Work

UN Expert Panel to Review China’s Record on Children’s Rights Protection

On Wednesday and Thursday, September 26-27, 2013, in Geneva, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child will review the People’s Republic of China’s implementation of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which the PRC ratified in 1992. China has also ratified the Convention's two...

September 24, 2013 | Press Work | Children | International Human Rights | United Nations

Lawyers Urge Authorities Not to Approve Formal Arrest of Guo Feixiong

In a letter to the Tianhe District People’s Procuratorate in Guangdong Province, the lawyers for Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄, penname of Yang Maodong (杨茂东)), the rights defender who has been under criminal detention since August 8, argue that there is no legal basis for Guo’s detention, and therefore it...

September 16, 2013 | Press Work

Two New Charges for Asset Transparency Advocate Liu Ping

According to HRIC sources, Liu Ping (刘萍), who was indicted in July for “illegal assembly” (非法集会), has been charged with two new counts. The new charges are “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place” (聚众扰乱公共场所秩序罪) and “using a cult to damage enforcement of the law” (利用邪教组织破坏法律实施罪). On...

August 29, 2013 | Press Work

Support Group Says Police Unlawfully Block Lawyers from Meeting with Guo Feixiong

Sources told Human Rights in China that the Tianhe Sub-branch of the Guangzhou Municipal Public Security Bureau (天河公安分局) has refused to let detained rights activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), meet with his lawyers, Sui Muqing (隋牧青) and Lin Qilei (蔺其磊). Guo has been under...

August 27, 2013 | Press Work

New HRIC Video Commentary—“Bo Xilai’s Trial: Drama Gone Awry"

As the riveting trial of Bo Xilai draws to a close, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor Gao Wenqian offers his views on what many media outlets have described as “the trial of the century.” The topics Gao discusses in his latest commentary on Bo’s case include: whether the “Weibo broadcast” of the trial was...

August 26, 2013 | Press Work

Guangzhou Activist Guo Feixiong Criminally Detained

Human Rights in China has learned that activist Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), is under criminal detention in Guangzhou on suspicion of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place.” Guo, a long-time rights advocate, is among dozens of rights activists and defenders...

August 19, 2013 | Press Work

Video: Xu Zhiyong Speaks from Detention Center, 8/1/2013

Xu Zhiyong: “I call on everyone to be a citizen, a forthright citizen who exercises their civil rights guaranteed under the Constitution and fulfills a citizen’s civic duty, promotes educational equality so that children of migrants may take college entrance exams at locations other than their...

August 7, 2013 | Press Work

Lawyer Meets with Xu Zhiyong

Xu Zhiyong in detention, July 24, 2013 Sources told Human Rights in China that a lawyer met with detained rights activist and advocate for the New Citizens’ Movement Xu Zhiyong (许志永) in the afternoon of July 24. The lawyer was retained by Xu’s family, following the authorities’ harassment of his...

July 25, 2013 | Press Work

In Custody and Released: Lawyer Teng Biao, Rights Activist Hu Jia

A Twitter message sent out by Teng Biao (滕彪), lawyer and rights activist, says he and rights activist Hu Jia (胡佳) have been released from custody. According to HRIC sources and information available online, in the evening of July 25, 2013, Teng and Hu were taken away by Domestic Security officers...

July 25, 2013 | Press Work

Joint Appeal for Unconditional Release of Xu Zhiyong and Other Asset Transparency Advocates

Four hundred and forty-six individuals have signed a public appeal for the release of Xu Zhiyong and others detained for calling for public disclosure of officials’ assets. Xu was criminally detained on July 16 for “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place.” His detention followed a...

July 23, 2013 | Press Work

Xu Zhiyong’s Lawyer Accuses Police and Detention Center of Rights Violations

In two open letters, Liu Weiguo (刘卫国), the lawyer representing the detained rights advocate Xu Zhiyong (许志永), accuses the Beijing Daxing District Public Security Bureau and Beijing No. 3 Detention Center of unlawfully preventing him from meeting with his client. The letters are dated July 21 and...

July 22, 2013 | Press Work

Family Says Rights Defender Zhang Lin is Criminally Detained

According to a series of Weibo posts by family members of Zhang Lin (张林), the long-time rights activist was criminally detained on July 19 by the Bengbu Public Security Bureau, Anhui Province, on suspicion of “gathering a crowd to disrupt order in a public place.” The official detention notice says...

July 19, 2013 | Press Work

Xu Zhiyong’s Lawyer Liu Weiguo in Custody, Rights Group is Shut Down

According to information available online and HRIC sources, Liu Weiguo (刘卫国), the lawyer of Xu Zhiyong (许志永), was taken into custody on July 18, 2013, after he attempted to visit Xu at Beijing No. 3 Detention Center. Xu was criminally detained on July 16. Sources said that while Liu was waiting at...

July 18, 2013 | Press Work

Xu Zhiyong, Advocate of Disclosure of Official Assets, Criminally Detained

According to information reported online, Xu Zhiyong (许志永), Beijing-based constitutional law scholar and civic action organizer, has been criminally detained by the “Public Transportation Safety Protection Branch” of the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau (北京市公安局公共交通安全保卫分局) on July 16. The...

July 16, 2013 | Press Work

Chinese Activists Calling for Greater Participation in China’s International Human Rights Reporting Taken Away by Police

According to information received by Human Rights in China (HRIC), all participants at a sit-in in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) were taken away by the police on the morning of July 1. Ongoing postings on Weibo report that petitioners from Beijing were taken to and detained at...

July 1, 2013 | Press Work

Snowden Affair Prompts Lawyer to Request Disclosure of Surveillance Information

Today, Xie Yanyi (谢燕益), a Beijing-based rights defense lawyer, made public an application he submitted to the Ministry of Public Security requesting disclosure of information on methods used by Chinese authorities to conduct surveillance on Chinese citizens. The application was first posted on...

June 25, 2013 | Press Work

Jiangsu Citizen Gu Yimin Arrested for “Inciting Subversion of State Power”

Sources told Human Rights in China that Gu Yimin (顾义民) was formally arrested on June 14 by police in Changshu, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, on suspicion of “inciting subversion of state power.” Gu’s wife, Xu Yan (徐燕), told HRIC that Gu was taken from his place of work by police on June 1, just...

June 18, 2013 | Press Work

Guangxi Rights Defense Village Chief Released from Prison

Xu Kun (许坤), formerly the elected chief of Baihutou Village, Beihai City, Guangxi Province, was released from prison on June 10, 2013, after receiving an 11-month reduction from his original four-year sentence for extra labor he performed in prison. Xu was convicted of “illegal business activities...

June 12, 2013 | Press Work

HRIC Documentary on June Fourth Victims: Portraits of Loss and the Quest for Justice

Consisting of footage shot by the Tiananmen Mothers, a group of family members of those killed during the violent crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement, Portraits of Loss and the Quest for Justice presents the stories of six victims told by their family members, and of two survivors told by...

June 4, 2013 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Hope Fades as Despair Draws Near: Essay by the Tiananmen Mothers on the 24th Anniversary of the June Fourth Tragedy

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is issuing the following essay by the group to commemorate the victims of June Fourth on its 24th anniversary. In the essay, the Tiananmen Mothers state their belief that people, when placed in a dire situation, will find a way...

May 31, 2013 | Press Work

Two Former Police Officers Criminally Detained When Petitioning in Beijing

Human Rights in China has learned that former police officers He Zuhua (何祖华) and Zhou Li (周历) were criminally detained during their recent attempt to petition in Beijing. Last year, prior to the Communist Party of China’s 18th National Congress, they were among a group of more than 20 aggrieved...

May 23, 2013 | Press Work

Lawyers Beaten During Attempt to Visit Black Jail

HRIC has learned from various sources that on May 13, 2013, seven lawyers were severely beaten by police officers in Ziyang City, Sichuan Province, when they attempted to visit Ziyang Legal Education Center (资阳市法制教育中心), the largest black jail in Sichuan. The lawyers are Guo Haiyue (郭海跃), Liang...

May 13, 2013 | Press Work

Activist Detained on Suspicion of “Inciting Subversion of State Power” after Calling for Disclosure of Officials’ Assets

Sources told Human Rights in China that rights activist Liu Ping (刘萍) has been criminally detained on suspicion of “inciting subversion of state power.” Authorities have denied a request by Liu’s lawyer to meet with his client. Liu is among 10 rights defenders who were taken into custody following...

May 9, 2013 | Press Work

Former Judge, Released After 11 Years' Imprisonment for “Subversion,” Appeals for Help

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on April 2, 2013, Li Jianfeng (李建峰), a former presiding judge in the Economic Department of Ningde Municipal Intermediate People's Court, Fujian Province, was released after serving more than 11 years in prison on conviction of “subversion of state...

May 1, 2013 | Press Work

Criminally Detained: Zhao Changqing and Six Other Advocates of Public Disclosure of Officials’ Assets

Human Rights in China has learned that Chinese authorities have placed seven activists under criminal detention on charges of “illegal assembly.” These individuals, including long-time activist Zhao Changqing (赵常青) and Beijing lawyer Ding Jiaxi (丁家喜), have called for public disclosure of government...

April 19, 2013 | Press Work

Police End Protest in Support of 10-Year-Old’s Right to Attend School

On April 16, police took away some 20 lawyers and rights defenders in Hefei, Anhui Province, who were protesting the removal of a10-year-old from a local school she was attending. Sources told Human Rights in China that the action was organized by the Ministry of State Security, as opposed to local...

April 17, 2013 | Press Work

Documentary Depicts Horrors in Juvenile RTL Camp in Late 1950s

According to a review essay by Ai Xiaoming (艾晓明), a professor at Sun Yat-Sen University in Guangzhou and a rights activist, a newly completed documentary film by Xie Yihui (谢贻卉 ) reveals that 4,000-5,000 minors, boys and girls, suffered inhuman treatment when they were interned in a Sichuan...

April 12, 2013 | Press Work

Rights Defense Lawyer Detained After Court Appearance

On April 4, 2013, a judge at the Jingjiang City People’s Court, Jiangsu Province, put a Beijing rights defense lawyer, Wang Quanzhang (王全璋), under a 10-day judicial detention for “serious violations of court procedure.” Wang is currently being held at the Jingjiang Detention Center. Supporters in...

April 4, 2013 | Press Work

Activist and Ten-year-old Daughter Illegally Detained before Forcible Removal from Hefei

Human Rights in China has learned that at approximately 3:30 p.m. on February 27, 2013, four unidentified men in Hefei, Anhui Province, took Zhang Anni (张安妮), the ten-year-old daughter of long-time rights activist, Zhang Lin (张林), from her school and detained her in a police precinct in the Hupo...

March 1, 2013 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Appeal for Legal Resolution of June Fourth Issue

In an open letter to China’s legislature and political advisory body to demand a just resolution of the June Fourth crackdown on the Democracy Movement of 1989, the Tiananmen Mothers stress that “the only feasible way to solve the June Fourth issue is through legislative and judicial procedures.”...

February 27, 2013 | Press Work | Tiananmen Mothers

Shenzhen Policeman Appealing 14-Year Sentence; Lawyers Bring Complaint to Central Authorities

In two complaints (Chinese only), lawyers representing Shenzhen police officer Wang Dengchao (王登朝), who is waiting for an appeal ruling on his 14-year prison sentence on “embezzlement” and “obstructing official business,” named 23 individuals in the Shenzhen municipal and local Luohu authorities—...

February 25, 2013 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner Mao Hengfeng Released to Finish Reeducation Order at Home

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on February 8, 2013, Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤), who was ordered to serve one year-and-a-half of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL), was released from the Yangpu District Detention Center to serve her RTL at home. She had been held at the...

February 8, 2013 | Press Work

Policeman Appeals 14-Year Sentence; Lawyer Silenced by Court

Sources told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that during the three-hour appeals hearing on February 7, 2013 that ended without a ruling, the Shenzhen Municipal Intermediate People's Court repeatedly interrupted the lawyers for Shenzhen police officer Wang Dengchao (王登朝), who was sentenced to 14...

February 7, 2013 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng in Fifth Month of Detention; Denied Contact with Family

The husband of Shanghai rights activist Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that he has not been allowed to visit or contact Mao since she was first detained on September 30, 2012, and is deeply concerned about her condition. Wu Xuewei (吴雪伟), Mao’s husband, said on January 31...

February 1, 2013 | Press Work

Lawyer Asks for Immediate Release of Mongolian Dissident Hada; Family Provides Further Details on Hada’s Condition

In a letter to Beijing and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region (IMAR) authorities, the lawyer for Mongolian dissident Hada (哈达) accuses the IMAR police of illegally detaining Hada in order to compel him to admit that he was guilty. He was convicted of separatism and espionage in 1996 and served a 15-...

January 29, 2013 | Press Work

Mongolian Dissident Hada in Illegal Detention Is Mentally Ill; Son Details Abuses by Authorities

In a phone conversation with Human Rights in China (HRIC), Uiles (威勒斯), the son of Mongolian dissident Hada (哈达), who has been under more than two years of illegal detention, says that his father is severely withdrawn and has psychological problems but is being denied medical treatment. Hada, an...

January 25, 2013 | Press Work

Family Permitted to Visit Rights Defense Lawyer Gao Zhisheng

On January 12, 2013, two family members of the imprisoned rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng (高智晟) were permitted to visit Gao at Shaya Prison in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, according to Gao’s wife Geng He (耿和). This was the first family visit since March 24, 2012, and the only...

January 22, 2013 | Press Work

Rights Defender Mao Hengfeng Held in Illegal Criminal Detention

Mao Hengfeng Shanghai rights defender Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) is being held in a detention center illegally, more than two months after she received an order to serve Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL), Mao’s husband, Wu Xuewei (吴雪伟), told Human Rights in China (HRIC). Mao’s family calls on the...

January 7, 2013 | Press Work

HRIC Urges Release of Liu Xiaobo, Presents Translation to Mark Peace Prize Anniversary

As the 2nd anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize for Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) approaches, Human Rights in China (HRIC) calls on the Chinese authorities to release him immediately and unconditionally. Liu, independent intellectual, long-time human rights and democracy advocate, and a drafter of Charter 08—an...

December 8, 2012 | Press Work

Chinese Netizens Speak Out on Tibetan Self-Immolations despite Censorship

According to reports, on November 20, 2012, Tsering Dhundup, a Tibetan activist in his thirties and a father of three, died after setting himself on fire to protest Chinese mining activities and policies. His self-immolation is the 78th* in Tibet since February 2009, and his death, following that...

November 21, 2012 | Press Work

Former Police Officers Held in Black Jails, One Began Hunger Strike

Sources told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that several individuals from a group of more than 50 former police officers who were prevented from protesting in Beijing late October are now being held in black jails. They are Jiang Fuyou (江富友), Liu Guoqiang (刘国强), and Zhao Hongyan (赵宏炎), who have been...

November 7, 2012 | Press Work

Reeducation-Through-Labor and Criminal Detention for Shanghai Petitioners on Eve of 18th Party Congress

Just days before the Communist Party of China’s 18th National Congress, at least four Shanghai petitioners have been ordered to serve Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) for “disturbing social order.” Sources told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that the petitioners, initially detained in late September,...

November 6, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Online Activist Sentenced to 8 Years for Subversion; Lawyer Raises Procedural Concerns

On October 31, 2012, more than seven months after trying online activist Cao Haibo (曹海波) for “inciting subversion of state power,” the Kunming Municipal Intermediate People's Court of Yunnan Province, convicted Cao of the more serious charge of "subversion of state power," and sentenced him to...

November 5, 2012 | Press Work

Former Police Officers Intercepted before Planned Protest in Beijing

As Beijing authorities step up their stability maintenance efforts in advance of the 18th Party Congress, some two dozen former police officers from various provinces who had gathered in Beijing for a planned protest were detained in recent days. Many were picked up on October 21 as they arrived at...

October 26, 2012 | Press Work

Mongolian Dissident Hada in 23rd Month of Unlawful Detention after Long Prison Term; Family Appeals for International Attention

In December 2010, when he was released after completing a 15-year prison sentence on conviction of espionage (间谍罪) and separatism (分裂国家罪), Mongolian dissident Hada (哈达) was taken directly to secret detention and has been under custody since. His wife, Xinna (新娜), told Human Rights in China (HRIC)...

October 22, 2012 | Press Work

International Prizes for Authors Liao Yiwu and Yu Jie

Following the October 11 announcement of the 2012 Nobel Literature Prize for Mo Yan (莫言), two other Chinese authors received international recognition for their work: Liao Yiwu (廖亦武) was awarded the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, and Yu Jie (余杰) was awarded the 2012 Civil Courage Prize by...

October 19, 2012 | Press Work

Shanghai Rights Defenders Detained in Advance of 18th Party Congress

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that at least four rights defenders in Shanghai were detained in late September: Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤), Cui Fufang (崔福芳), Wang Kouma (王扣玛), and Tong Guojing (童国菁). Three of them have been charged with “gathering a crowd to disturb public order” or “disturbing...

October 2, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Zhongnanhai Abandons Bo Xilai to Protect the Party

18th Party Congress Watch (12) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor After more than six months of deliberation and bargaining, top officials in the Communist Party of China have finally reached a decision on how to deal with the Bo Xilai problem: charge him with abuse of power and taking...

September 28, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

What Is Next for Bo Xilai?

18th Party Congress Watch (11) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor In this new segment of the HRIC’s “18th Party Congress Watch” commentary series, Gao Wenqian provides his view on the meaning of Wang Lijun’s 15-year sentence and its implication for how the Party will deal with Bo Xilai’s case...

September 27, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Zhejiang Land Rights Activist and Henan Dissident Released from Prison

Kong Qiuhua (孔秋华), wife of Yang Yunbiao (杨云彪), a land rights defender from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that her husband was released on April 23, 2012, five months ahead of the scheduled release date (September 23, 2012). Yan was sentenced to three years in prison...

September 26, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

HRIC at UN: State Secrets System Hinders Effective Review of PRC Progress on Rights for the Disabled

Webcast of the CRPD review sessions (in Chinese), September 18 & 19, 2012, is available here:http://www.treatybodywebcast.org/crpd-8-china/ Concluding Observations issued by the CRPD Committee on September 27, 2012, is available here:http://www.ohchr.org/EN/HRBodies/CRPD/Pages/...

September 17, 2012 | Press Work

Online Protest Grows as Former Teacher Awaits Verdict on “Inciting Subversion of State Power”

On the September 4, Chen Pingfu (陈平福), a former math and science teacher, was tried in a court in Lanzhou, Gansu Province for “inciting subversion of state power.” The court did not issue a verdict. In 2005, Chen started playing violin on the street in Lanzhou on weekends to repay debts he had...

September 13, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Lawyer Retained by Li Wangyang Family Unlawfully Held for Six Days

Li Wangyang with friend, Daxiang District Hospital, Shaoyang, Hunan Province, July 23, 2011 Tang Jingling (唐荆陵), a Guangdong lawyer retained by the family of the late labor activist Li Wangyang (李旺阳), was detained for six days, from September 5 to September 10 in Shaoyang, Hunan Province, and in...

September 11, 2012 | Press Work

Internet Dissident Wang Xiaoning Released from Jail; He Depu Portrays Prison Life with Wang

Human Right in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing political dissident Wang Xiaoning (王小宁) was released from prison today. Wang served 10 years at the Beijing Municipal No. 2 Prison on conviction of “inciting subversion of state power” and is subject to two years of post-release deprivation of...

August 31, 2012 | Press Work

Wife of Wuhan Activist Details Harassment and Unlawful Detention and Appeals to International Community

In an open letter to the United Nations, Wang Xifeng (王喜凤), a teacher from Shanxi Province, details the abuses that she and husband Qin Yongmin (秦永敏) have suffered over the past several months at the hands of various government authorities. She and Qin, a well-known democracy activist based in...

August 22, 2012 | Press Work

Guizhou Dissidents under Strict Watch as Authorities Clean Up for Party Congress

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from an informed source that in the past few months, all members of the Guizhou Human Rights Symposium have been harassed and placed under surveillance by authorities, and their communications with the outside world has also been cut. The source believes...

August 7, 2012 | Press Work

Court Overturns “Fraud” Conviction in Ni Yulan Appeal, Cuts Jail Sentence by Two Months

In an appeal ruling on July 27, 2012, the Beijing Municipal No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court overturned the “fraud” conviction of Ni Yulan (倪玉兰), the disabled rights advocate, but upheld her other conviction of “picking quarrels and provoking troubles.” The court reduced her two-year and eight-...

July 27, 2012 | Press Work

Family of Chen Kegui Rejects Officially Appointed Lawyers

Chen Kegui (陈可贵), nephew of blind legal advocate Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚), is facing charges of intentional homicide after wounding several intruders into his home in the course of self-defense. The incident took place on April 27, 2012, several days after his uncle escaped unlawful house arrest by...

July 25, 2012 | Press Work

Land Rights Activist Yang Chunlin Released

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that Yang Chunlin (杨春林) was released from Xianglan Prison in Heilongjiang Province today, after completing his five-year prison sentence for “inciting subversion of state power.” He is now subject to two years of deprivation of...

July 6, 2012 | Press Work

Open Letter from Ding Zilin to Chai Ling

At the request of Ding Zilin, a spokesperson for the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China is releasing an open letter entitled “To Chai Ling—A Belated Open Letter Response.” HRIC has translated the letter into English (see below). On June 4, 2012, Chai Ling posted online an op-ed piece in...

June 29, 2012 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Guangxi Villagers Who Fought Land Appropriation Released from Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that rights defenders Zhang Cunqiong (张春琼) and Gao Shifu (高世福), both of Baihutou Village in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, were released from the Beihai No. 1 Detention Center. Zhang was released on June 6, and Gao on May 25, 2012, both having...

June 8, 2012 | Press Work

Relatives of Li Wangyang Being Held by Authorities

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from an informed source that the sister and brother-in-law of Li Wangyang (李旺阳) were taken to a hotel today, June 7, and are being held there by the police. Li Wangyang is a Hunan labor activist who was found dead of purported suicide in a hospital room in...

June 7, 2012 | Press Work

Relatives Question Hunan Activist’s “Suicide”; Demand Autopsy

Li Wangyang with friend, Daxiang District Hospital, Shaoyang, Hunan Province, July 23, 2011 A relative of blind labor activist Li Wangyang (李旺阳) told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Li was found dead on June 6, hanging by the window in a hospital room where he was being treated for his...

June 6, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

“Commemorating the 23rd Anniversary of the Passing of the Victims of the 1989 June Fourth Crackdown”: Essay by the Tiananmen Mothers

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is issuing the following essay that commemorates the victims of June Fourth on its 23rd anniversary. In the essay, signed by 150 individuals, the Tiananmen Mothers state that their struggle will not cease, and they will not...

May 31, 2012 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Beijing Is Doomed to Lose the War of the Internet

18th Party Congress Watch (8) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor This is the year of the dragon, traditionally viewed as an unlucky year, often a year of famines. This is certainly the case for the Communist Party. Wang Lijun taking refuge in the U.S. Consulate in Chengdu tossed the Beijing...

April 25, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

73-Year-Old Member of Tiananmen Mothers Commits Suicide

The Tiananmen Mothers, a group consisting of victims and relatives of victims of the June Fourth government crackdown of the 1989 protests, reports that one of its members, Ya Weilin (轧伟林), has committed suicide. Ya Weilin was 73 three years old and was the father of a young man killed during the...

May 27, 2012 | Press Work

Activists Hu Mingjun and Yuan Xiancheng to Be Released Monday

Hu Mingjun (胡明军), a democracy activist from Sichuan, and Yuan Xianchen (袁显臣), a rights defender from Heilongjiang, are scheduled for release from prison on May 28, 2012. Hu will have served 11 years on charges of “subversion of state power” for writing articles critical of the government and for...

May 24, 2012 | Press Work

Zhang Qi Released After Four Years; Cao Haibo Tried in Closed-Door Hearing

On May 15, 2012, reform advocate Zhang Qi (张起) was released from the Yuzhou Prison, Chongqing, after serving a four-year term for "inciting subversion of state power.” On May 22, the Kunming Intermediate People’s Court, Yunnan Province, tried Cao Haibo (曹海波), another reform advocate, in a closed-...

May 23, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Chen Guangcheng and Family Arrive in the United States

Blind legal advocate Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚), his wife Yuan Weijing (袁伟静), and their two children arrived safely tonight in the United States. They were met at the Newark International Airport by representatives of the U.S. State Department and New York University, as well as China law expert...

May 19, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

“Who Rescued Chen Guangcheng?” an HRIC Translation

On May 17, 2012, the Hong Kong-based online journal iSUN AFFAIRS published the article “Who Rescued Chen Guangcheng?” (誰救了陳光誠？東師古村秋後算帳). It gives a detailed account of the escape of the blind legal advocate who later sought refuge in the U.S. Embassy in Beijing. The article states that the account...

May 17, 2012 | Press Work

Evictee in Guangdong Jumps to Her Death, Villagers Vow to Fight Demolition

An informed source told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Li Jie’e (李洁娥), a resident of Yangji Village, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, jumped to her death on May 9, 2012, after her home was demolished in March this year as part of a land requisition by local authorities. The police...

May 11, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Activist Accused of Inciting Subversion of State Power for Distributing Leaflets

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that You Minglei (游明磊), a bank employee in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, has been taken into police custody on suspicion of “inciting subversion of state power” after distributing political leaflets. He is being held at Nanchang Municipal No. 2 Detention...

May 9, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

Chen Guangcheng’s Escape Highlights the Bankruptcy of Beijing’s Stability Maintenance Model

18th Party Congress Watch (9) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor This has been an eventful year for China—great shows one after another. The Bo Xilai affair has yet to wind down when blind rights activist Chen Guangcheng managed to escape right under the authorities’ watch. Chen even used a...

April 28, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Chen Guangcheng Reported Safe; His Brother and Nephew Taken Away by Police

A source knowledgeable about the blind rights defense lawyer Chen Guangcheng’s (陈光诚) escape from his captors told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Chen is safe but does not want to leave China. The source said that Chen’s nephew, Chen Kegui (陈克贵), who had a violent confrontation with...

April 27, 2012 | Press Work

Blind Lawyer Chen Guangcheng Reported Missing, Brother Taken Away, Nephew Fears for His Own Life

According to Chen Kegui (陈克贵), a nephew of blind rights defense lawyer Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚), who has been under house arrest since September 2010, is now missing from his home. Chen Kegui also told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Chen Guangfu (陈光福) – Chen Kegui’s father and Chen Guangcheng’s...

April 26, 2012 | Press Work

Hu Jintao Intends No Fresh Start in Bringing Down Bo Xilai

18th Party Congress Watch (7) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor After nearly a month of silence, the Hu Jintao-Wen Jiabao administration finally made its move: it announced that Bo Xilai was suspected of “serious disciplinary violations,” was suspended from the Politburo and Central...

April 20, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Ni Yulan Appeals Conviction; U.S. and EU Call for Her Release

On April 13, disabled rights advocate Ni Yulan (倪玉兰) submitted an appeal to Beijing Municipal No.1 Intermediate People’s Court challenging her conviction and prison sentence by a lower court. On April 10, the Xicheng District People’s Court of Beijing found Ni guilty of “picking quarrels and...

April 17, 2012 | Press Work

Democracy Activist Is Scheduled for Release after Serving 11 Years for Subversion

On April 14, 2012, Li Dawei (李大伟), a former policeman and democracy activist, is scheduled to be released from a prison in Gansu Province after serving 11 years on conviction of “subversion of state power.” According to Li’s family members, Li is not expected to arrive home until the evening of...

April 13, 2012 | Press Work

Wang Dan and Others Appeal for Permission to Visit China

In an open letter, Wan Dang and five others in exile after the 1989 Democracy Movement appeal to the Chinese government to restore their right to return to their country and allow them to visit China. They state that they are willing to abide by the principles of openness and good faith to engage...

April 6, 2012 | Press Work

Guangxi Lawyer Yang Zaixin Put under Residential Surveillance after Nine Months in Detention

On March 15, 2012, well-known rights defense lawyer Yang Zaixin (杨在新), after nine months in detention, was put under “residential surveillance at a designated place”—which means, under the Chinese Criminal Procedure Law, detention at a place other than the detainee’s home or an official detention...

March 22, 2012 | Press Work

Bo Xilai’s Ouster: Implications for the Country

18th Party Congress Watch (6) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor The annual Two Sessions of the National People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference had only just ended when the removal of Bo Xilai from his post as Chongqing Municipal Party Secretary was...

March 20, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Two Congresses: A New Mark on History’s Pillar of Shame

18th Party Congress Watch (5) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor The Two Congresses—National People’s Congress and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference—have long lost any real political function, having been reduced to being rubber stamps for the authorities. What is more, in...

March 16, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Upcoming Vote on Revised Criminal Procedure Law Raises Procedural and Censorship Concerns

On Wednesday, March 14, China’s legislature, the National People’s Congress (NPC) is expected to vote to adopt proposed revisions to the Criminal Procedure Law (CPL) amid troubling questions about the substance of the legislation, procedural irregularities, censorship of online discussion. On March...

March 13, 2012 | Press Work

HRIC Honors Female Rights Defenders in China

To commemorate International Women’s Day, HRIC honors two remarkable female rights defenders, Wang Lihong (王荔蕻) and Ni Yulan (倪玉兰), by presenting short video portraits of their work. By their actions, both have stood up to defend the most fundamental rights of a citizen: to be able to speak...

March 8, 2012 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Urge Government Dialogue to Resolve June Fourth Massacre

In advance of this year’s “Two Congresses,” due to begin on March 5, the Tiananmen Mothers have issued an open letter to the Fifth Plenary Session of the Eleventh National People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference. In the letter, the Tiananmen Mothers call on the NPC...

February 29, 2012 | Press Work | Tiananmen Mothers | June Fourth

Leader of “Chain Gate” Protest, Bao Junsheng, Released from Prison

Bao Junsheng (鲍俊生), organizer of a 2009 protest in front of a courthouse in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, was released on February 22, after completing a three-year sentence on conviction of “gathering a crowd to disturb social order.” He was met by some three dozen friends outside the Leshan...

February 23, 2012 | HRIC Bulletin

On the Wang Lijun Incident: Who’s the Biggest Loser?

18th Party Congress Watch (4) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor Right before Xi Jinping’s visit to the United States, the Chinese government’s own backyard was ablaze with this startling event: Wang Lijun (王立军), the recently-sacked chief of the Public Security Bureau in Chongqing, and “...

February 16, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Congressional Testimony by Geng He, Wife of Disappeared Rights Lawyer Gao Zhisheng

Geng He (耿和), wife of Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), the rights defense lawyer who was last seen in public in April 2010, testified today at a hearing before the Congressional Executive Commission on China. In the testimony, Geng He outlines the persecution of her husband since 2005, which included revocation...

February 14, 2012 | Press Work

Dissident Zhu Yufu Sentenced to Seven Years for “Inciting Subversion”

On February 10, 2011, the Hangzhou Intermediate People’s Court sentenced Zhu Yufu (朱虞夫), a 59-year-old Hangzhou-based dissident, to seven years of imprisonment and three years of deprivation of political rights for “inciting subversion of state power.” Zhu said he would appeal verdict. Zhu’s...

February 10, 2012 | Press Work

Improved Human Rights in China Is Win-Win for U.S. and China

Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping’s visit to the United States next week comes at a time of increasing political, economic, and diplomatic friction between the two countries. Very clearly, it is the impact of the conflict over bilateral trade that is most deeply felt by the American people. In...

February 10, 2012 | Press Work

Xi Jinping’s U.S. Visit: Sino-American Relations Need a New Start

18th Party Congress Watch (3) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping’s upcoming U.S. visit is no ordinary exchange visit between the leaders of two countries, but a new round in the contest between two great powers. Xi’s visit will also coincide with the 40th...

February 8, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Who Is the Current Target of What Deng Xiaoping Said 20 Years Ago?

18th Party Congress Watch (2) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor A Chinese new year is just beginning, and the undercurrents in Chinese politics are already surging up. The countdown to the 18th Party Congress has started, and various factions within the Party are now in hand-to-hand combat...

February 6, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Poem Cited among Evidence in Zhu Yufu’s “Incitement” Trial; No Verdict

Zhu Yufu (朱虞夫), 59, a Hangzhou dissident who previously served seven years in prison (1999-2006) for his role in founding the China Democratic Party, was tried by the Hangzhou Municipal Intermediate People’s Court today for “inciting subversion of state power.” The hearing lasted for two hours and...

January 31, 2012 | Press Work

China Must Address Root Causes of Growing Tibetan Protests

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is deeply concerned about the protests and violence in Luhuo County (Drango in Tibetan) and Sêrtar County (in Chinese, Seda County [色达县], also known as Sertha County) in western Sichuan Province on January 23 and 24, the first days of the Chinese New Year. Kirti...

January 27, 2012 | Press Work

What Is behind Hu Jintao’s Caution against “Western Cultural Infiltration”?

18th Party Congress Watch (1) Gao Wenqian, HRIC Senior Policy Advisor In an article published in early January 2012 in the Communist Party policy magazine Qiushi (求是), Chinese President Hu Jintao cautioned against Western culture infiltrating and subverting China. In fact, the warning is one of...

January 26, 2012 | Press Work | Communist Party Of China

Dissident Writer-in-Exile Yu Jie Details Torture by Police

In a statement today at a press conference in Washington, D.C., Yu Jie (余杰), dissident writer and former vice president of the Independent Chinese PEN Center who left China a week ago, recounts his torture by state security police after he was kidnapped on December 9, 2010, the day before the...

January 18, 2012 | Press Work

Rights Defender Recounts Incarceration in Psychiatric Hospital

Li Jinping (李金平), from Shilipu Village, Changying Township, Chaoyang District, Beijing, worked as a police officer at the Chaoyang Branch of the Beijing Public Security Bureau until he resigned in 2000. After Zhao Ziyang, the former General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, passed away...

January 11, 2012 | Press Work

No Verdict Issued in Ni Yulan’s Case

Rights Defender Ni Yulan Uses Computer by Candlelight. Beijing, January 1, 2011. (Photo by Dong Jiqin). On the morning of December 29, 2011, the Xicheng District People’s Court of Beijing heard the case of human rights advocate Ni Yulan (倪玉兰) and her husband, Dong Jiqin (董继勤). Both are charged with...

December 29, 2011 | Press Work

Kirti Rinpoche Meeting with the Press

Edited Transcript Sharon Hom, Executive Director, Human Rights in China (HRIC): On behalf of Human Rights in China, I would like to welcome His Eminence Kyabje Kirti Rinpoche, the chief abbot and spiritual leader of the Kirti Monasteries in Tibet and India, and also welcome the members of the...

November 16, 2011 | Press Work

Veteran Guizhou Activist Chen Xi Sentenced to Ten Years

On the morning of December 26, the Guiyang Municipal Intermediate People’s Court of Guizhou Province sentenced veteran dissident and human rights activist Chen Xi (陈西), to ten years prison and three years’ deprivation of political right for “inciting subversion of state power.” This heavy...

December 26, 2011 | Press Work

Democracy Activist Chen Wei Gets Nine Years for “Inciting Subversion”

On December 23, the Suining Municipal Intermediate People’s Court of Sichuan Province convicted democracy activist Chen Wei (陈卫) of “inciting subversion of state power” and sentenced him to nine years in prison and two years’ post-release deprivation of political rights. The verdict, which was read...

December 23, 2011 | Press Work

Wife of Disappeared Rights Lawyer Gao Zhisheng Urges International Attention

On December 20, Human Rights in China spoke with Geng He (耿和), wife of the Chinese lawyer Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), whose prosecution, torture, and disappearances by the Chinese authorities have gained worldwide attention and concern. In the interview, Geng He reacts to the latest official action...

December 22, 2011 | Press Work

Dissident Chen Wei to Be Tried on December 23

Sichuan dissident Chen Wei (陈卫) is scheduled to go on trial at 9 a.m. on December 23, 2011. His case will be heard by the Suining Municipal Intermediate People’s Court of Sichuan Province on charges of “inciting subversion of state power” (煽动颠覆国家政权罪). Chen’s defense lawyers, Zheng Jianwei (郑建伟) and...

December 21, 2011 | Press Work

Wang Lihong, Zheng Yichun, Bo Xiaomao Released

Wang Lihong (photo courtesy of the family) Wang Lihong (王荔蕻), a well-known rights defender from Beijing, was released in the early morning of December 20 from the Chaoyang District Detention Center in Beijing, where she completed a nine-month sentence for “picking quarrels and provoking...

December 20, 2011 | Press Work

Huang Jinqiu, Writer and Dissident, Released after Eight Years in Prison

Huang Jinqiu, working as a reporter before his arrest. Huang Jinqiu (黄金秋), a writer and dissident, was released from Pukou Prison in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, on October 20, 2011, after serving eight years. According to reports, Huang postponed announcement of his release until today, December...

December 13, 2011 | Press Work

Land Rights Activist Liu Zhengyou Released

Liu Zhengyou (刘正有), a land rights activist who served two years in a prison in Zigong, Sichuan Province, was released today. He was greeted by 80 rights defenders who came from Chengdu, including Chen Yufei (陈云飞). Liu was arrested in 2009 after he participated in an investigation of the children...

November 11, 2011 | Press Work

Rights Activist Wang Yi Still under Surveillance after Release from RTL

Rights activist Wang Yi (王译), also known as Chen Jianping (程建萍), was released today from a Henan Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) facility where she served one year of RTL as punishment for re-tweeting a sarcastic message in October 2010. Wang said that she is staying at a guesthouse in Henan, and...

November 9, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Ai Weiwei’s Mother to Mortgage Her House to Help Son

Artist Ai Weiwei (艾未未) said that he received a notice* from the Beijing Municipal Local Taxation Bureau (北京市地方税务局) dated November 1, 2011, requiring him to pay 15.22 million yuan back taxes ($2.36 million) within 15 days. The notice also stated that Ai would accrue an additional 200,000 yuan ($31,...

November 7, 2011 | Press Work

HRIC Testifies at Hearing on Chen Guangcheng

HRIC Executive Director Sharon Hom testified before the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China on November 1, 2011. Find her written testimony below. “Examination into the Abuse and Extralegal Detention of Legal Advocate Chen Guangcheng and His Family” November 1, 2011

November 3, 2011 | Press Work

Dozens of People Beaten while Attempting to Visit Blind Legal Advocate Chen Guangcheng

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from eyewitnesses that on October 30, 2011, 37 rights defenders and netizens who attempted to visit the blind legal advocate Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚) in Linyi, Shandong Province, were beaten by around 100 unidentified individuals. Many of them were injured,...

October 31, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

HRIC Open Letter to Relativity Media

As a Chinese human rights organization, we are deeply concerned to read about the apparent failure of your companies to do due diligence before selecting Linyi City as a filming location for 21 and Over, a co-production of Relativity Media, SAIF Partners, and IDG China Media. This failure is now...

October 31, 2011 | Press Work

Defense Lawyer in High-Profile Beihai Case Beaten while Police Watch

Eyewitnesses told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that on Friday, October 21, 2011, a group of defense lawyers and supporting colleagues who are working on a high-profile murder case in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, were surrounded by dozens of people outside the Beihai Municipal...

October 21, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Rights Defender Guo Feixiong Released from Prison; Remains Committed to Rights Work

Guangdong-based rights activist and writer Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄), also known as Yang Maodong (杨茂东), was released from the Meizhou Prison in Guangdong Province on September 13, 2011, after serving a five-year sentence on conviction of “illegal business activity.” Guo told Human Rights in China (HRIC...

September 13, 2011 | Press Work

Rights Defender Wang Lihong Sentenced to Nine Months

The Beijing-based human rights defender Wang Lihong (王荔蕻) was sentenced to nine months in prison today on the charge of “picking quarrels and provoking troubles” (寻衅滋事) by the Chaoyang District People’s Court of Beijing. Wang’s prison term runs from March 21, 2011, to December 20, 2011. Wang’s son...

September 9, 2011 | Press Work

HRIC Blocked from EU-China Human Rights Dialogue Seminar

Last week, at the eleventh hour, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs refused to grant a visa to a staff member of Human Rights in China (HRIC), who had been invited to participate in the EU-China Human Rights Seminar in Beijing. According to official descriptions, these seminars, organized...

September 7, 2011 | Press Work

Writer Lü Gengsong Released from Prison; Refuses Conditions of Deprivation of Political Rights

Writer Lü Gengsong (吕耿松) was released from the Xijiao Prison in Hangzhou on August 23, 2011, after serving a four-year sentence following a conviction for “inciting subversion of state power.” Lü is also subject to one year of deprivation of political rights following his release, which includes...

August 24, 2011 | Press Work

Lawyers Report Procedural Irregularities at Trial of Rights Activist Wang Lihong

On August 12, 2011, the trial of Wang Lihong (王荔蕻) on the charge of “picking quarrels and provoking troubles” (寻衅滋事) at Beijing’s Chaoyang District People’s Court ended without a verdict. Wang is a well-known and well-respected activist in Beijing who began her rights defense activities after...

August 13, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Court Upholds Four-year Term for Guangxi Village Chief Who Fought Land Expropriation

On August 3, 2011, the Beihai Municipal Intermediate People’s Court in Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region announced it has upheld a four-year prison sentence and a 200,000 yuan (approximately $30,800) for Xu Kun (许坤), the elected chief of Baihutou Village in the Yinhai District of Beihai. Xu had...

August 3, 2011 | Press Work

UN Human Rights Committee Raises Concern over the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Its Review of Kazakhstan

In concluding observations and recommendations released today, a United Nations expert body noted with concern that Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member state Kazakhstan “may be willing to rely” on diplomatic assurances provided within the SCO framework “to return foreign nationals to...

July 29, 2011 | Press Work

Imprisoned Journalist Ordered to Serve Eight More Years

On July 25, 2011, a court in Shandong rejected the appeal by Qi Chonghuai (齐崇怀, also 齐崇淮), an imprisoned journalist who already completed a four-year term, and upheld a sentence requiring Qi to serve another eight years. Qi is a long-time journalist known for his exposés of official corruption and...

July 28, 2011 | Press Work

Petitioner Mao Hengfeng Released from Reeducation-Through-Labor in Serious Condition

Long-time petitioner Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) was released from Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) on July 28, 2011. The release comes one month before the completion of her 18-month RTL order. She was escorted by more than 10 policemen and arrived to her Shanghai home in a wheelchair. According to the...

July 28, 2011 | Press Work

HRIC Calls for Full and Transparent Investigation of July 18 Incident in Hotan

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is deeply concerned over the July 18 violence reported in Hotan, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, which resulted in at least 18 reported deaths, and official depictions of events that contradict eyewitness accounts. Official Chinese media reports have referred to the...

July 27, 2011 | Press Work

Sichuan Barefoot Lawyer Speaks Out against Trumped-up Charge

Upon his release after a four-month jail term, Li Shuangde (李双德), a legal worker in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, describes how the authorities turned an instance of credit card overdraft into the charge of “credit card fraud” (信用卡诈骗) against him and coerced a guilty plea from him by threatening his...

July 22, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

China through Different Lenses: HRIC Photo Contest Winners

In February this year, HRIC held a photo contest, China through Different Lenses, inviting submissions of photographs that reflect the complex reality of Chinese society, the problems facing the China’s people, and efforts to address those problems. Out of some 300 photos submitted, we have...

July 21, 2011 | Press Work

Guangxi Rights Defense Lawyer Yang Zaixin Formally Arrested

On June 28, well-known rights defense lawyer Yang Zaixin (杨在新) was formally arrested by police in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, on charges of “witness tampering” (妨害作证罪) under Article 306 of China’s Criminal Law. On June 14, the day that Yang was first detained, three other lawyers, Luo...

July 5, 2011 | Press Work

Hu Jia Released

HIV/AIDS activist and rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) was released from Beijing Municipal Prison on the morning of Sunday, June 26, after completing a three-and-a-half year sentence. He is now subject to one year’s deprivation of political rights. According to media accounts, police have blocked...

June 27, 2011 | Press Work

Ai Weiwei's Release: International Community Must Press for More Releases and Systemic Reforms

Paris/New York, 24 June 2011. The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcome the release of Chinese artist Ai Weiwei on Wednesday, 22 June 2011, and urge the international community to continue to monitor the status of Ai Weiwei’s associates and the...

June 24, 2011 | Press Work

Direct Elections Advocate Yao Lifa Missing

Human Rights in China has learned that Yao Lifa (姚立法), a school teacher and a prominent advocate of direct local elections, has been missing since Monday, June 20. According to Yao’s wife, people posted outside their home have been watching her and Yao. In addition, Yao has been followed to and...

June 23, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Guangxi Rights Defense Lawyer Detained for “Witness Tampering”

Huang Zhongyan (黄仲琰), the wife of detained rights defense lawyer Yang Zaixin (杨在新), told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that when she came home on June 14, at 11 a.m., she found it in complete disarray. Taped to the refrigerator door was a “List of items seized” issued by the Haicheng substation...

June 16, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

How Will the Shanghai Cooperation Organization “Harmonize” Central Asia?

On June 15, China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Yang Jiechi in a newspaper editorial appraised and signaled the ambitions of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), a regional group composed of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. He called the SCO “an inspiration...

June 16, 2011 | Press Work

Earthquake Activist Freed after Three Years in Prison; Other Rights Defenders to Be Released This Month

On June 10, Sichuan earthquake activist Huang Qi (黄琦) was released from a prison in Chengdu, after completing a three-year term on the conviction of “illegal possession of state secrets.” Huang, a long-time rights defender, is known for the help he provided to the victims of the May 2008 earthquake...

June 10, 2011 | Press Work | Environment

On the Eve of the Tenth Anniversary of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, States Must Account for Human Rights Impact

On June 15, 2011, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) will celebrate its ten-year anniversary at the SCO “Jubilee Summit” in Astana, Kazakhstan. During this summit, the SCO and its member states – China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan – will reportedly reflect...

June 10, 2011 | Press Work

For All Families of June Fourth Victims: Justice Must Accompany Compensation

On the eve of the 22nd anniversary of the June Fourth crackdown, the Tiananmen Mothers, a group of 127 family members of those killed and injured, revealed that public security personnel visited one family several times in recent months to discuss payment in order to “resolve” the June Fourth issue...

June 3, 2011 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

SCO Member State Kazakhstan’s Return of Uyghur Refugee to China Demonstrates Disregard of International Human Rights Obligations

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is extremely concerned over reports of the deportation of Uyghur refugee Ershidin Israil to China from fellow Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member state Kazakhstan. Israil fled to Kazakhstan in late September 2009, in the wake of the July 2009 Urumqi riots in...

June 1, 2011 | Press Work

“The Souls of Those Killed during June Fourth Shall Not Be Defiled; Their Families Shall Not Be Dishonored”: Essay by the Tiananmen Mothers

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is releasing the following essay that commemorates the victims of June Fourth on its 22nd anniversary. On the 22nd Anniversary of the Tiananmen Massacre: The Souls of those Killed during June Fourth Shall Not Be Defiled;...

May 30, 2011 | Press Work | Tiananmen Mothers | June Fourth

Ai Weiwei’s Sister: Meeting between Artist and Wife Was “No Charity from the Government”

Ai Weiwei (艾未未)’s sister Gao Ge (高阁) told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that the brief meeting on Sunday evening, May 15, between Ai Weiwei and his wife, Lu Qing (路青), was “no charity from the government” (不是什么政府给我们的恩赐). Gao said, “Lu Qing and our family have made numerous emphatic requests to...

May 16, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Invocation of Terrorism and SCO Cooperation in Response to Question about Freedom of Travel Raises Serious Human Rights Concerns

On May 5, at a regular press briefing in the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), a reporter asked MFA spokeswoman Jiang Yu to verify whether it was true, as reported, that China pressured Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan into preventing individuals from going to the United States to attend a...

May 6, 2011 | Press Work

Activist Free after Ten-Year Term; Three Writers to Be Released This Month

Hunan-based labor rights activist Li Wangyang (李旺阳) was released today, after serving 10 years in the Hunan Provincial No. 1 Prison for “inciting subversion of state power.” His family confirmed his return to his hometown in Shaoyang, Hunan Province. Li is subjected to four years of deprivation...

May 5, 2011 | Press Work

SCO Member States Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Prevent Uyghur Activists from Attending Conference in United States

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is extremely concerned over the recent efforts of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan to interfere with the travel of individuals of Uyghur ethnicity to a conference titled “The Future of Uyghur People in East Turkestan...

May 4, 2011 | Press Work

Lengthy Prison Terms and Heavy Fines for Baihutou Village Chief and Land Rights Activists

On the morning of April 29, 2011, the Yinhai District People’s Court in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuangzu Autonomous Region, sentenced Xu Kun (许坤), the Baihutou Village chief, to four years in prison on the charge of “illegal business activity” and fined him 200,000 yuan (approximately US$30,800). The court...

April 29, 2011 | Press Work

Clarification

Media have been reporting erroneously that Human Rights in China (HRIC) has reported that Ai Weiwei has confessed under torture. We would like to clarify that this is not HRIC’s reporting. The information comes from an article submitted by a writer using an alias from mainland China, which we...

April 22, 2011 | Press Work

Two Years of Reeducation-Through-Labor for Rights Activist Yang Qiuyu

Beijing rights activist Yang Qiuyu (杨秋雨) has been ordered to serve two years of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) for “picking quarrels and provoking troubles” (寻衅滋事). Yang was taken into custody on March 6, 2011, when he was taking photographs near Beijing's Xidan Shopping Center. On March 9,...

April 14, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Family and Friends Fear Danger for Imprisoned Guangxi Village Chief

According to informed sources, Xu Kun (许坤), the imprisoned chief of Baihutou Village in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, was recently transferred to a new cell at the Beihai No. 2 Detention Center where his five cellmates are picking fights with him daily. In light of the many unusual...

April 13, 2011 | Press Work

Guizhou Human Rights Activist Continues to Suffer Police Persecution

On February 18, 2011, Guizhou Human Rights Symposium member Lu Yongxiang was taken away by the Guiyang police and was illegally detained for 24 days. During that time, Lu suffered mistreatment, including often being deprived of breakfast and drinking water, and having to sleep with television...

April 11, 2011 | HRIC Bulletin

Silencing the People Is More Dangerous than Damming a River

Human Rights in China (HRIC) urges the Chinese authorities to stop the crackdown on all those in China exercising fundamental rights protected by international and Chinese domestic law. The detention of Ai Weiwei (艾未未) is the most recent example of the Chinese government’s total disregard for...

April 4, 2011 | Press Work

Compromise of Human Rights Under Cover of Counter-Terrorism – Human Rights in China Releases a Whitepaper on the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

In recent years, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), comprising six states with deeply troubling human rights records – China, the Russian Federation, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan – is increasingly embraced by the international community as a partner in countering...

March 30, 2011 | Press Work

Independent Intellectual Ran Yunfei Arrested on "Inciting Subversion of State Power" Charge

Ran Yunfei (冉云飞), a well-known Chinese Internet writer and independent intellectual, was formally arrested on suspicion of "inciting subversion of state power" by the Chengdu Municipal Public Security Bureau. On Monday, March 28, Ran's wife, Wang Wei (王伟), received the official arrest notification...

March 28, 2011 | Press Work

Activist Sentenced to Ten Years for Inciting Subversion; Essays Cited as Evidence

In a trial lasting less than two hours and marked with procedural irregularities, a Sichuan court sentenced Liu Xianbin (刘贤斌), a signer of Charter 08 and long-time advocate of democratic reform in China, to ten years in prison and two years and four months of deprivation of political rights....

March 25, 2011 | Press Work

Reform Advocates Jin Haike and Xu Wei Released after 10-Year Imprisonment

Jin Haike (靳海科) and Xu Wei (徐伟) were released from prison on Saturday, March 12, after serving ten years each on the charge of “subversion of state power.” Both published essays on peaceful political reform and helped organize an informal study and discussion group, the “New Youth Society,” on...

March 14, 2011 | Press Work

Chinese MFA Spokesperson to Reporter: “Don’t Use the Law as a Shield”

In response to a question about what law the foreign journalists who were roughed up by police on February 27 violated, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Jiang Yu (姜瑜) said on March 3, 2011: “Don’t use the law as a shield.” Jiang made the statement at a regular press conference...

March 4, 2011 | Press Work

Ding Zilin Urges Authorities to Lift House Arrest of Liu Xia, Wife of Liu Xiaobo

In the following appeal, Ding Zilin (丁子霖), a spokesperson of the Tiananmen Mothers, calls upon the Chinese authorities to immediately lift the house arrest of Liu Xia (刘霞), wife of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波). Liu has been confined with her communications cut off from the...

March 3, 2011 | Press Work

More Crackdown Incidents; Authorities Use Force to Prevent Reporting of Jasmine Rallies

In an effort to stamp out any possible Jasmine Rally activities, the Chinese authorities continue to crack down on Chinese rights activists and lawyers, and resorted to violence against foreign journalists that marks an escalation of media censorship in China. Since our February 23 press...

March 2, 2011 | Press Work

Guangxi Villagers Tried for Illegal Business Activities in Fight against Land Requisition

Three residents of Baihutou Village, in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, were tried today for “illegal business activities,” in a case that is widely seen by Baihutou villagers as retribution for resistance against government requisition of village land. The defendants—Baihutou Village...

February 28, 2011 | Press Work

Heavy Charges for Chinese Activists; HRIC Urges Support from International Community

A few days before the Jasmine Rallies called for by Chinese organizers to be held in 23 cities on Sunday, February 27, the Chinese authorities have charged many activists with serious state security crimes, including “subversion of state power” and “inciting subversion of state power.”...

February 25, 2011 | Press Work

Petitioner Recounts Abuses during RTL; Medical Parole Rescinded

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on February 24, Shanghai authorities rescinded petitioner Mao Hengfeng’s (毛恒凤) medical parole just two days after her release from a Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) facility. Authorities cited her “illegal activities inconsistent with [the...

February 24, 2011 | Press Work

Lawyers and Activists Detained, Summoned, and Harassed in “Jasmine Rallies” Crackdown

On February 20, inspired by the “Flower Revolutions” in Tunisia and Egypt, anonymous netizens in mainland China broke through official Internet censorship to call for a "Jasmine Revolution" in thirteen different cities. Prior to this, the Chinese authorities held a series of high-level meetings...

February 23, 2011 | Press Work

Jasmine Organizers Call for Rallies Every Sunday

In an open letter to the National People’s Congress, the organizers of the “Jasmine Rallies” call on the people to gather every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in each of the designated places in 13 Chinese cities to continue to push for an end to corruption, an independent judiciary, and a government...

February 22, 2011 | Press Work

Rights Lawyer Missing More than 48 Hours; Former Local People’s Congress Deputy Detained Seven Days

Chinese authorities have intensified their crackdown on rights defense activists. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the family of Beijing lawyer Tang Jitian (唐吉田) has not heard from him since he was taken away from his home by police on February 16, more than 48 hours ago....

February 18, 2011 | Press Work

Lawyers Beaten, Detained after Meeting Regarding Chen Guangcheng

Jiang Tianyong (江天勇), a Beijing-based lawyer, told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that on February 16 he was detained and beaten by police inside a police station. According to Jiang, around 3:00 p.m. he was taken to the Yangfangdian police substation in Haidian District immediately after he and a...

February 16, 2011 | Press Work

HRIC Urges International Attention to Blind Lawyer Chen Guangcheng’s Situation

In a recently released video, blind lawyer Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚) and his wife Yuan Weijing (袁伟静) describe in detail the virtual imprisonment they have been subjected to in their own home in Shandong Province since Chen’s release from prison in September 2010. According to press reports,...

February 11, 2011 | Press Work

Call for Photograph Submissions

Call for Photograph Submissions Topic: “China through Different Lenses” Deadline: Friday, March 11, 2011 In the past three decades, China has made important progress in economic development. At the same time, this progress has come with tremendous social costs, with adverse impact on many of...

February 10, 2011 | Press Work

Take Action in Year of the Rabbit!

Take Action in Year of the Rabbit! (Chinese Year 4709) Express Your Support for Imprisoned Activists and Rights Defenders in China The Chinese New Year is the most important holiday in Chinese tradition – a time for the whole family to come together. You can celebrate the New Year (which begins...

February 1, 2011 | Press Work

In Memory of Szeto Wah

In Memory of Szeto Wah(February 28, 1931 – January 2, 2011) “Rehabilitate June Fourth, fight for democracy, continue our efforts!” were Szeto Wah’s – Uncle Wah’s – final words to his fellow fighters for democracy. Szeto Wah devoted his life to social movements and the call for democracy. He...

January 29, 2011 | Press Work

Wife Describes Beating of Activist He Depu by Police

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an account written by Jia Jianying (贾建英) detailing the beating by police of her husband, activist He Depu (何德普), upon his release from Beijing No. 2 Prison on January 24, 2011. He had just completed his eight-year sentence on the conviction of “...

January 25, 2011 | Press Work

Released after Eight-Year Prison Term, Activist He Depu Is Beaten by Police, Describes Torture

Shortly after He Depu (何德普), a veteran dissident and activist, walked out of a Beijing prison today after completing his eight-year term, he was beaten by four police officers when he resisted being shoved into a police vehicle. He was injured in the neck and hands, according to an...

January 24, 2011 | Press Work

Chinese Government Needs to Demonstrate Concrete Human Rights Progress, Not Launch Publicity Campaigns

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the clear and detailed articulation of the Obama Administration’s approach to U.S.-China relations delivered by Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on the eve of Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit to the United States, including the affirmation...

January 18, 2011 | Press Work

Lawyers Appeal to Twitter CEO for Help

In an open letter to Twitter CEO Dick Costolo, the lawyers for Wang Yi (王译) – the rights activist now serving one year of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) for tweeting a sarcastic message – ask the company to use its unique global influence to press for Wang’s unconditional release. In the...

January 9, 2011 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Mourns the Passing of Dissident-Writer Li Hong

Human Rights in China mourns the untimely death of Mr. Li Hong (力虹), and expresses its sincere condolences to his family. In March 2007, Zhejiang dissident writer Li Hong, who had published novels in China and articles on overseas websites, was convicted of “inciting subversion of state power”...

January 7, 2011 | Press Work

Prominent Rights Activists Detail Life in 74-Day House Arrest

[Chinese / 中文] Immediately following the announcement of the 2010 Nobel Peace Prize on October 8, 2010, Ding Zilin (丁子霖), a representative of the Tiananmen Mothers, and her husband, Jiang Peikun (蒋培坤), were put under house arrest by police authorities, first in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, and then...

December 30, 2010 | Press Work

Mongolian Dissident Hada Missing after Scheduled Prison Release; Wife and Son Detained

Relatives of Mongolian dissident Hada (哈达), 55, said that Hada has not returned home since his scheduled release on Friday, December 10, 2010, from No. 4 Chifeng (Ulanhad) Prison in the Inner Mongolian Autonomous Region (IMAR) after serving a fifteen-year prison sentence on conviction of...

December 14, 2010 | Press Work

Actor Richard Gere Honors Liu Xiaobo in New York

This morning Richard Gere, actor and human rights advocate, joined Students for a Free Tibet, Human Rights in China (HRIC), and eight other NGOs in honoring Nobel Peace Prize winner Liu Xiaobo. Richard Gere removes first bar of the Liu Xiaobo installation.Photo Credit: HRIC Staff At an event in...

December 10, 2010 | Press Work

Freedom for Liu Xiaobo and All Imprisoned by the Chinese Government for Exercising Their Rights

Joint Statement by Students for a Free Tibet, Human Rights in China, Amnesty International, Human Rights First, Human Rights Watch, International Campaign for Tibet, International Federation for Human Rights, Tibetan Youth Congress of New York & New Jersey, Unrepresented Nations and Peoples...

December 8, 2010 | Press Work

Writer Imprisoned for Essays; Still Silenced after Release

Prominent writer and Internet activist Du Daobin (杜导斌) was released earlier today from the Hanxi Prison (汉西监狱) in Wuhan, Hubei Province, after serving a three-year sentence for “inciting subversion of state power” (煽动颠覆国家政权罪), a conviction that was based on 26 essays he wrote and published on the...

December 8, 2010 | Press Work

Democracy Activist Qin Yongmin Released from Prison after 12-Year Sentence

Longtime democracy and human rights activist Qin Yongmin (秦永敏) was released from the Hanyang Prison in Hubei Province today after serving a 12-year sentence for “subversion of state power” (颠覆国家政权罪). Qin was convicted in December 1998 following his activities to organize the China Democracy...

November 29, 2010 | Press Work

Food Safety Activist Zhao Lianhai Sentenced to Two-and-a-Half Year Prison Term; Declares Hunger Strike

In a sentencing hearing that lasted merely 40 minutes, Zhao Lianhai (赵连海), a parent of a victim of melamine-tainted milk powder and a core organizer of affected families nationwide, was sentenced today to a two-and-a-half year prison term on conviction of the crime of “picking quarrels and...

November 10, 2010 | Press Work

State Visit of Hu Jintao in France: Human Rights Concerns Should Finally Be Addressed!

Paris - Brussels - New York, November 3, 2010 – While Mr. Hu Jintao, President of the People's Republic of China and General Secretary of the Communist Party of China is in official visit in France, the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and its member organizations, Human Rights...

November 3, 2010 | Press Work

Extreme Measures Used to Control Blind Rights Defender Chen Guangcheng

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned more details about the restrictions placed on Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚), the blind Shandong-based rights defender who was released from prison on September 9, 2010. Chen and his wife, Yuan Weijing (袁伟静), are not allowed to leave their home, and no one – not...

November 2, 2010 | Press Work

Dozens Put Under House Arrest as Chinese Authorities Intensify Crackdown Following Nobel Peace Prize Announcement

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned through communication with those affected and online sources that nearly forty individuals inside China have been put under house arrest in the weeks following the announcement of Liu Xiaobo’s (刘晓波) 2010 Nobel Peace Prize. One domestic rights activist...

October 28, 2010 | Press Work

Clampdown on Individuals Following Nobel Announcement

In the days following the announcement of the Nobel Peace Prize for Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), Human Rights in China (HRIC) has continued to receive information on individuals being subjected to surveillance, restriction of communications and movement, house arrest, and forced departure from place of...

October 12, 2010 | Press Work

Liu Xia, Nobel Peace Prize Recipient Liu Xiaobo’s Wife, Under House Arrest

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received urgent information from Liu Xia (刘霞), wife of imprisoned 2010 Nobel Peace Prize recipient Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), that she has been placed under house arrest in Beijing. Liu Xia reported that Beijing municipal state security officers followed her as she...

October 10, 2010 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Restrict Nobel Peace Prize News and Communications with Outside

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Chinese authorities have attempted to severely restrict the dissemination of news about the Nobel Peace Prize; they have cut off communications from key persons under surveillance and have prevented people from celebrating. Ding Zilin (丁子霖), the...

October 9, 2010 | Press Work

Liu Xiaobo Wins Nobel Peace Prize

Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), the prominent independent intellectual and long-time democracy advocate, was awarded the Nobel peace prize today for his “long and non-violent struggle for fundamental human rights in China.” In its citation, the Nobel Committee noted that despite China’s economic advances, “...

October 8, 2010 | Press Work

Lawyer Asks Head of Supreme People’s Court to Resign over Execution

On September 30, 2010, Yang Jinzhu (杨金柱), a well-known criminal defense lawyer in Hunan, posted an article online, titled “If One Dares to Ask – What Reigns Supreme in China?” (敢问哪个至上, 金柱律师将敦请王胜俊先生引咎辞职), in which Yang asked the President of the Supreme People’s Court, Wang Shengjun (王胜俊), to resign...

October 7, 2010 | Press Work

HRIC, in Joint Appeal, Urges EU to Push for Rights Progress in China

On the eve of the EU-China Summit in Brussels on October 6, 2010, Human Rights in China (HRIC), together with the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and International Campaign for Tibet (ICT), calls upon the European Union to reassess its strategy on human rights in China in view of...

October 5, 2010 | Press Work

Nationwide State Secrets Education Campaign Launched as New Law Goes into Effect

China’s revised Law on Guarding State Secrets (State Secrets Law) goes into effect today. Passed on April 29, 2010, the same day that a major policy report on the Internet1 was presented to the National People’s Congress, the revised State Secrets Law is a legal upgrade designed to place broader...

Ten Petitioners and Rights Defenders Sentenced in Wake of Official Statistics on Decline of Petitions

A court in Sichuan Province convicted ten petitioners and rights defenders of “gathering a crowd to disturb social order” in connection with a February 2009 protest they staged to draw attention to their previously unanswered petitions. The sentences, issued by the Shizhong District People’s...

September 28, 2010 | Press Work

“Direct Line to Zhongnanhai”- with 26 Caveats

On September 8, 2010, an online message board for Internet users to send comments to China’s top leaders, Direct Line to Zhongnanhai (直通中南海), was launched by the People’s Daily, the official media organ of the Communist Party of China. As of September 13, the website has already registered more...

September 13, 2010 | Press Work

Two Zhejiang Democracy Activists Released after Serving Sentences on “Subversion” and “Inciting Subversion” Charges

Democracy activist Chen Shuqing (陈树庆) was released on September 13, 2010, from Qiaosi Prison in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province after serving four years on charges of “inciting subversion state power.” Chen is subject to one year of deprivation of political rights following his release, including...

September 13, 2010 | Press Work

Lawyer Barred from Representing Client by “6-10” Agents

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from Beijing lawyer Wang Yajun (王雅军) that he was barred by agents of the so-called “6-10 Office”1 in Siping, Jilin Province, from representing a Falun Gong practitioner. Wang’s client, Du Lihua (杜丽华), is accused of “using a heretical organization to...

September 10, 2010 | Press Work

Blind Lawyer Chen Guangcheng Released after More than Four Years in Prison

Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚), the blind, “barefoot” lawyer who gained international attention when he was sentenced in 2006 to four years and three months in prison, was released today from the Linyi City Prison, Shandong Province. Chen was first detained in 2006 after filing a lawsuit against the city...

September 9, 2010 | Press Work

Heilongjiang Court Upholds “Inciting Subversion of State Power” Conviction of Legal Activist

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has confirmed that in early August the Heilongjiang Provincial Higher People’s Court upheld the “inciting subversion of state power” conviction of Yuan Xianchen (袁显臣), a “barefoot” lawyer and rights activist from Jixi, Heilongjiang Province, and that Yuan has been...

September 2, 2010 | Press Work

Recipients of the 2010 Fund to Assist the Children of June Fourth Prisoners Award

Recipients of the 2010 “Fund to Assist the Children of June Fourth Prisoners” Award Established by the Support Network for the Persecuted in China (See below for the list of recipients.) On June 16, 2010, the Support Network for the Persecuted in China announced the establishment of the Fund to...

August 26, 2010 | Announcement

In Important Move, Railway Court Vacates Lawyer’s Sentence on Appeal, Citing Unclear Facts

In a case that has attracted widespread attention, particularly in the lawyers’ community, on August 10, 2010, the Beijing Railway Transportation Intermediate Court vacated the “intentional injury” conviction and three-year prison sentence of Beijing lawyer Wang Yu (王宇). The court cited “unclear...

August 11, 2010 | Press Work

Veteran Fuzhou Lawyer Sues Judicial Bureau to Assert Right to Practice, Puts Spotlight on Two Other Flawed Cases

On July 22, 2010, a court in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, heard without issuing a ruling the case of lawyer Lin Hongnan (林洪楠), who is challenging a decision by the Fuzhou Municipal Bureau of Justice to stop him from practicing law for one year on what Lin calls a trumped up charge. The Bureau of...

August 3, 2010 | Press Work

Heavy Prison Term for Uyghur Advocate of Inter-ethnic Understanding

Gheyret Niyaz (in Chinese, Hailaitie Niyazi [海来提•尼亚孜 or 海莱特•尼亚孜]), a 51-year-old Uyghur journalist, was tried for “endangering state security” on July 23, 2010, and sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment, according to an interview with Niyaz’s wife, Risalet (in Chinese, Reshalaiti [热莎来提]),...

July 23, 2010 | Press Work

Husband Reports Abuse of Mao Hengfeng in Reeducation-Through-Labor Camp

Wu Xuewei (吴雪伟), husband of Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤), told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Mao has been suffering serious physical abuse in the Anhui Provincial Women’s Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) Camp, where Mao is serving an 18-month sentence. Wu stated that Mao told him...

July 22, 2010 | Press Work

Dissident Liu Xianbin Arrested on Suspicion of Inciting Subversion of State Power

Liu Xianbin (刘贤斌), a Sichuan-based democracy activist and writer, was formally arrested on suspicion of inciting subversion of state power. Liu’s wife, Chen Mingxian (陈明先),was summoned by the Suining Municipal Public Security Bureau on the morning of July 6, 2010, where she received a formal...

July 6, 2010 | Press Work

Veteran Dissident Liu Xianbin Placed in Criminal Detention Again

Liu Xianbin (刘贤斌), a Sichuan-based democracy activist, writer, and one of the first signers of Charter 08, was taken away on June 28, 2010, by the Suining State Security Police (四川遂宁国保), while he was meeting with Chen Wei (陈卫), another democracy activist, at a local teahouse. At 7:00 pm that...

June 29, 2010 | Press Work

Three Resisters of Forced Demolition Sentenced by Guangxi Court

On June 11, 2010, the Yinhai People’s Court of Beihai, in southern Guangxi Province, found three inhabitants of the Baihutou Village guilty of “obstructing official business,” and sentenced two of them, Gao Zhenzhang (高镇章) and Gao Shihui (高世辉), father and son, to two years’ imprisonment each. The...

June 11, 2010 | Press Work

Sichuan High Court Upholds Five-Year Sentence for Earthquake Activist Tan Zuoren

The Sichuan Provincial Higher People’s Court has upheld the five-year sentence, with three years of deprivation of political rights, of Tan Zuoren (谭作人), the Sichuan environmental activist and writer convicted of “inciting subversion of state power.” The decision was announced on June 9, 2010, in a...

June 9, 2010 | Press Work

Writer Zhang Jianhong, Gravely Ill, is Released on Medical Parole; Family Struggles to Pay for Treatment

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that imprisoned Zheijiang dissident Zhang Jianhong (张建红), also known by his penname Li Hong (力虹), who suffers from advanced stage amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) and is in critical condition, has been granted medical parole....

June 8, 2010 | Press Work

Independent Report on June Fourth Victims: A Directory of 195 Killed and More Than 800 Imprisoned

To commemorate the 21st anniversary of the June Fourth government crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement, Jiang Qisheng (江棋生), prominent dissident and independent intellectual who was active in the Charter 08 initiative, has provided Human Rights in China (HRIC) an English version of his report,...

June 3, 2010 | Press Work

Guizhou Authorities Suppress Activities to Commemorate June Fourth

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that in recent days, many members of the Guizhou Human Rights Symposium have been detained, summoned for questioning, or even beaten by police authorities in Guiyang, Guizhou Province. The group has been openly planning activities to commemorate the 21st...

June 2, 2010 | Press Work

“An Offering to the Spirits of the Victims”: Essay by the Tiananmen Mothers

At the request of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is releasing the following essay that commemorates the victims of June Fourth on its 21st anniversary. “An Offering to the Spirits of the Victimson the 21st Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre”from the Tiananmen Mothers [...

June 1, 2010 | Press Work

HRIC Briefing Note: Tighter Regulation of Foreign Funding Support of Chinese Civil Society Groups

On March 1, 2010, a new set of rules on foreign donations issued by the State Administration for Foreign Exchange (SAFE) went into effect. The rules were set out in the government notice Circular of the SAFE on Relevant Issues Concerning the Administration of Donations in Foreign Exchange by...

May 27, 2010 | Press Work

Shanghai Rights Activist Mao Hengfeng Starts Hunger Strike in Reeducation-Through-Labor Camp

Shanghai-based petitioner and rights defender Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) has started a hunger strike at the Hefei Municipal Women’s Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) Camp, her lawyer Liu Peifu (刘培福) told Human Rights in China (HRIC). Liu said that Mao was protesting the haircut that was forced upon her and...

May 26, 2010 | Press Work

Guangxi Authorities Target Village Chief Active in Land Rights

On Wednesday, May 19, 2010, police authorities barred Xu Kun (许坤), a village chief in the city of Beihai in southern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, from meeting with his lawyer, claiming that Xu’s case involves state secrets, according to the lawyer, Zheng Jianwei (郑建伟). Zheng also said that the...

May 19, 2010 | Press Work

U.S.-China Human Rights Dialogue Resumes: Foundation for Action?

Although it is too early to assess the progress made in the just-concluded U.S.-China Human Rights Dialogue, Human Rights in China (HRIC) is encouraged by Assistant Secretary of State Michael Posner’s comments that a range of specific cases, including those of Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) and Gao Zhisheng...

May 14, 2010 | Press Work

Case Update: Disbarred Lawyers File Criminal Complaint Against Judicial Bureau Official

On May 4, 2010, lawyers Liu Wei (刘巍) and Tang Jitian (唐吉田), whose licenses were revoked by the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice on April 30, filed a criminal complaint with the Beijing Xicheng District Procuratorate against Xiao Lizhu (萧骊珠), head of the Bureau’s Lawyers’ Management Department....

May 12, 2010 | Press Work

Beijing Judicial Bureau Revokes Licenses of Two Rights Defense Lawyers

In two phone calls on May 7, 2010, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice informed rights defense lawyers Tang Jitian (唐吉田) and Liu Wei (刘巍) that it has revoked their lawyers’ licenses. The decisions [http://www.bjsf.gov.cn/sy/sytztg/201005/t20100507_1279393.html, http://www.bjsf.gov.cn/sy/cxjl/...

May 7, 2010 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: Imprisoned Democracy Activists Gravely Ill, Require Immediate Medical Parole

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that political prisoners Zhang Jianhong (张建红) (also known by his pen name, Li Hong [力虹]) and Yang Tianshui (杨天水) are in extremely critical medical condition. HRIC urges the prison authorities where Zhang and Yang are respectively held, in Hangzhou,...

May 6, 2010 | Press Work

Protester of "99% of Petitioners Are Mentally Ill" Statement Gets One Year in Prison

Rights activist Zhou Li (周莉) was sentenced by a Beijing court on May 4, 2010, to one year’s imprisonment on conviction of “causing disturbance” (寻衅滋事). The case arose from a March 2009 public remark made by Sun Dongdong (孙东东), a professor of forensic psychiatry (司法精神病学) at Peking University Law...

May 4, 2010 | Press Work

Citizens Find No Redress for Home Lost to Shanghai Expo

As Shanghai welcomes visitors from around the world to an Expo that boasts the theme of “Better City, Better Life,” some of Shanghai’s residents are still trying to find a home, years after the authorities forced them out of their residences to make way for the mega-event. Li Guanrong (李贯荣), wife...

April 30, 2010 | Press Work

China Sharpens Legal Weapons for Information Control

In a revision of the central pillar of China’s state secrets system – the Law on Guarding State Secrets1 (State Secrets Law) – the Chinese government has tightened its control of the flow of information in the digital age. Including provisions that simultaneously target Internet and other public...

April 29, 2010 | HRIC Bulletin | Access to Information | Information Control | State Secrets

Shanghai Petitioner Mounts “Expo of Judicial Injustice”

In a phone interview on April 25, 2010, Shanghai rights activist Feng Zhenghu (冯正虎) told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that he has been placed under heavy “protection” since April 19, 2010, when his home was searched, with four computers and other electronic equipment confiscated, while he was...

April 27, 2010 | Press Work

Judicial Authorities Target Lawyers, Eroding Rule of Law

Beijing lawyers Tang Jitian (唐吉田) and Liu Wei (刘巍), who are facing revocation of their lawyer’s licenses on the charge of “disrupting courtroom order and interfering with the regular litigation process,” told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that the “evidence” presented by officials at today’s...

April 22, 2010 | Press Work

Lawyers Challenge License Revocation Decision; Judicial Bureau Balks

The Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice today rejected a request by lawyers Tang Jitian (唐吉田) and Liu Wei (刘巍) to postpone the administrative hearing on the revocation of their licenses, scheduled for April 22, 2010, on the grounds that the Judicial Bureau has not provided adequate factual and...

April 21, 2010 | Press Work

Lawyers Facing License Revocation Detail Irregular Courtroom Activities Permitted by Judge

On Thursday, April 22, 2010, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice will decide in an administrative hearing whether it will revoke the licenses of two Beijing lawyers, Tang Jitian (唐吉田) and Liu Wei (刘巍), for “disrupting courtroom order and interfering with the regular litigation process.” The...

April 20, 2010 | Press Work

Liver Cancer Suspected, Activist Hu Jia Seeks Medical Parole

On April 7, 2010, activist and documentary filmmaker Zeng Jinyan (曾金燕) circulated an urgent appeal for help regarding a feared liver cancer diagnosis of her husband Hu Jia (胡佳), the environmental and AIDS activist who is serving a three-and-a-half-year sentence in Beijing. She also circulated...

April 9, 2010 | Press Work

Chinese Government Should Respect Gao Zhisheng’s Rights

On April 7, 2010, the Associated Press reported an in-person conversation with activist lawyer Gao Zhisheng (高智晟). Gao’s reappearance is a welcome reassurance to his family and supporters that he is safe. The recent reported statements about his desire to reunite with his family are powerful...

April 8, 2010 | Press Work

Women’s Rights NGO Responds to Cancellation by Peking University

On March 25, Peking University released a notice on its website (reposted on the university’s online forum) that it had decided to cancel (撤销) four organizations, including the Center for Women’s Law Studies and Legal Services of Peking University (北京大学法学院妇女法律研究与服务中心), China’s first public...

April 7, 2010 | Press Work

Twenty-Seven Henan Families Accuse Army Hospital of Malfeasance

At the request of 27 families in Henan Province, Human Rights in China is releasing an open letter by these families alleging that deaths and disabilities of at least 27 patients resulted from the treatment these patients received at the People's Liberation Army (PLA) No. 152 Central Hospital in...

April 6, 2010 | Press Work

Home Demolished for World Expo, Shanghai Petitioners Seek Just Compensation

As Shanghai authorities prepare for the World Expo, scheduled to begin on May 1 this year, the five-year ordeal of Hu Yan (胡燕) and her family – whose ancestral home was demolished without the family’s consent – illustrates the strong-arm tactics of the authorities when it comes to official...

April 1, 2010 | Press Work

Provisional Regulations on the Protection of Commercial Secrets of Central State-Owned Enterprises

[PDF, 200KB] [中文] Document of the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State CouncilGuozifa Document No. 41 (2010) Notice Regarding the Issuance of the Provisional Regulations on the Protection of Commercial Secrets of Central State-Owned Enterprises [...

March 27, 2010 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner Recounts Detention in Black Jail and Leveling of Family Farm

In a statement released to Human Rights in China (see below), Shanghai petitioner Shen Peilan (沈佩兰) recounts her abduction by police in Beijing on March 7, 2010, and her eight-day detention in a Shanghai guesthouse – a “black jail.” Her detention coincided with the annual convening of the National...

March 18, 2010 | Press Work

In Statement, Tiananmen Mothers Urge Government to Open Up the Internet

The Tiananmen Mothers, a group of relatives of the victims of the June 4, 1989 government crackdown, have asked Human Rights in China to make public an English translation of a statement they issued on the occasion of the current annual sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and Chinese...

Shanghai Petitioner to Serve 18 Months of Reeducation-Through-Labor after Shouting Slogans

Long-time Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) has been ordered to serve one-and-a-half years of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) for “disturbing social order” by shouting slogans outside a Beijing court on December 25, 2009. Mao was one of the protestors who gathered outside the Beijing...

March 9, 2010 | Press Work

Barred from Traveling, Writer Liao Yiwu Speaks to German Readers in Open Letter

On March 1, 2010, in the Chengdu airport, dissident writer Liao Yiwu (廖亦武) was taken by police off a plane bound for Beijing, where he had planned to fly on his way to attend lit.Cologne, a literature festival in Cologne, Germany. Liao was interrogated at a local police station for several...

March 1, 2010 | Press Work

Statement by Geng He, Wife of Gao Zhisheng

At the request of Geng He (耿和), wife of Chinese rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), Human Rights in China (HRIC) is releasing a statement by Ms. Geng today, following recent reports that Chinese authorities claim that Gao is living and working in Xinjiang and has been in contact with Ms....

February 17, 2010 | Press Work

Court Affirms 11-Year Sentence for Liu Xiaobo against International Appeal for His Release

On February 11, 2010, the Beijing Municipal High People’s Court reviewed Liu Xiaobo’s (刘晓波) appeal and upheld his “inciting subversion of state power” conviction and 11-year sentence by a lower court. Liu’s wife, Liu Xia (刘霞), told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that in court, after the decision...

February 11, 2010 | Press Work

Top EU Official Asks China to Account for Missing Chinese Lawyer Gao Zhisheng

In a statement issued on February 9, 2010, Catherine Ashton, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, asked the Chinese government to “clarify without delay the situation of Gao Zhisheng and to open a fully...

February 10, 2010 | Press Work

Sichuan Activist Sentenced to Five Years for “Inciting Subversion of State Power”

In a brief hearing on February 9, 2010, in the Chengdu Municipal Intermediate People’s Court, Sichuan-based writer and environmental activist Tan Zuoren (谭作人) was found guilty of “inciting subversion of state power” and sentenced to a five-year prison term and three years’ deprivation of...

February 9, 2010 | Press Work

In Letter, Writer Liao Yiwu Seeks Help from Angela Merkel

After being denied permission by Chinese authorities to attend an upcoming literary festival in Cologne, writer Liao Yiwu (廖亦武) has written a letter to German Chancellor Angela Merkel seeking intervention. Liao is the author of The Corpse Walker: Real Life Stories: China from the Bottom Up and...

February 8, 2010 | Press Work

Wife of Disappeared Lawyer Says to Chinese Government: Give Back My Husband

Today marks one year since Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), one of China’s most outspoken rights defense lawyers, was seen forcibly taken from his hometown, Xiaoshibanqiao Village, Shaanxi Province, by more than 10 state security policemen. Despite international attention on the case, Chinese authorities...

February 4, 2010 | Press Work

Liu Xiaobo Appeal Charges Court with Abuse of Public Power

[Chinese / 中文] In the appeal defense statement filed on behalf of Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), Liu’s lawyers charged that the trial court abused its public power (公权力) in finding Liu guilty of “inciting subversion of state power” and sentencing him to 11 years’ imprisonment. Human Rights in China has...

January 29, 2010 | Press Work

Václav Havel, in HRIC Interview, Sends Message of Solidarity to Liu Xiaobo and Family

Václav Havel, playwright, former dissident, and first president of the Czech Republic (1993–2003), expressed strong solidarity and sympathy with jailed Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) and his family in a recent interview with Sharon Hom, executive director of Human Rights in China. On December...

January 27, 2010 | Press Work

Google Attacked from China: Wake-up Call to International Business

Google today issued a statement that it will reconsider the company's operations in China, following an investigation bringing to light a “sophisticated and targeted attack on [Google’s] infrastructure originating from China.” Human Rights in China (HRIC) has translated the Google statement into...

January 12, 2010 | Press Work

International Community Speaks Out on Liu Xiaobo Verdict

Since the Beijing Municipal No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court issued a guilty verdict and 11-year sentence to Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) for the crime of “inciting subversion of state power” on December 25, 2009, the international community has condemned the decision and its negative impact on the universal...

December 30, 2009 | Press Work

Liu Xiaobo’s Guilty Verdict and 11-Year Sentence Send Message of Zero Tolerance for Universal Human Rights

In one of the most high-profile political trials in China in recent years, a Beijing court today found Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) guilty of “inciting subversion of state power” and sentenced him to 11 years of imprisonment and two years’ deprivation of political rights. Liu’s lawyers told Human Rights in...

December 25, 2009 | Press Work

What Constitutes Liu Xiaobo’s “Incitement to Subvert State Power”?

The trial of prominent intellectual Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波) in the Beijing Municipal No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court (北京市第一中级人民法院) took less than three hours under near total security lock down outside the courtroom. Like much of China’s judicial process, especially cases deemed politically sensitive,...

December 23, 2009 | Press Work

The Dirtiest of Political Trials

“The Dirtiest of Political Trials” Ding Zilin (丁子霖) December 23, 2009 [Translated by Human Rights in China] Today, December 23, at 9 A.M., Chinese authorities used the dirtiest of pens to write down these dirtiest of words: the Trial of Liu Xiaobo. Today, December 23, at 9 A.M., Dr. Liu...

December 23, 2009 | Press Work

Vocal Government Critic Dismissed from China’s Top Think Tank

On December 21, 2009, Zhang Boshu (张博树), political philosopher and constitutional scholar, was asked to leave his post at the Philosophy Institute of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), China’s largest think tank and a state-run institution. Zhang joined CASS in 1991 as an assistant...

December 21, 2009 | Press Work

Ding Zilin Urges Charter 08 Signers to “Join” Liu Xiaobo’s Trial

In an interview with Human Rights in China (HRIC), Tiananmen Mothers’ representative Ding Zilin (丁子霖) called for a peaceful collective action to support Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波). Liu is facing an imminent trial on charges of “inciting subversion of state power” in connection with six essays he wrote and...

December 18, 2009 | Press Work

Feng Zhenghu Urges International Community to Support Right of Return to One’s Own Country

In an interview with Human Rights in China (HRIC), Feng Zhenghu (冯正虎), a Chinese citizen who has been denied return to China since June 7, 2009, says that the international community must not forget the meaning of Human Rights Day, December 10, which commemorates the adoption of the Universal...

December 10, 2009 | Press Work

Rights Activists Illegally Held, Harassed Before Human Rights Day

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that rights activist Chen Xi (陈西), one of the organizers of an annual Guizhou Human Rights Symposium to take place around Human Rights Day, December 10 – which commemorates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights – has been held by police since 10:00 a.m...

December 8, 2009 | Press Work

Case Update: Authorities Obstruct Huang Qi’s Appeal Attempts

Human Rights in China (HRIC) was informed on December 1, 2009, that Sichuan earthquake activist Huang Qi (黄琦), who was convicted of “illegal possession of state secrets” and sentenced to three years in prison, is trying to file an appeal before his appeal period expires in two days. His efforts,...

December 1, 2009 | Press Work

Case Update: Court Stalls on Giving Written Judgment to Huang Qi's Lawyers, Family

The family of Sichuan earthquake activist Huang Qi (黄琦), who was convicted of “illegal possession of state secrets” on November 23, 2009, and sentenced to three years imprisonment, has requested that Human Rights in China make public two documents. The first is a letter from Huang’s lawyers Mo...

November 25, 2009 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns Three-Year Sentence for Earthquake Activist

On Monday, November 23, 2009, a court in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, sentenced Huang Qi (黄琦), an activist who tried to help families of the victims of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, to three years in prison for “illegal possession of state secrets.” Huang has been in detention since June 2008....

November 23, 2009 | Press Work

Rights Defense Lawyer Detained for 13.5 Hours After Efforts to Meet With Obama in Beijing

Rights defense lawyer Jiang Tianyong (江天勇) was released on the evening of Thursday, November 19, 2009, after a thirteen-and-a-half-hour detention. He was taken into custody one day after his request to meet with U.S. President Barack Obama at the American embassy. He spoke with Human Rights in...

November 19, 2009 | Press Work

U.S. Citizen Detained in Beijing for Attempt to Deliver Letter to Obama

On the afternoon of November 17, 2009, when U.S. President Barack Obama was scheduled to visit the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, a U.S. citizen, Julie Harms, who was waiting outside the embassy in order to deliver an appeal letter for the President, was picked up by Chinese police officers. According to...

November 17, 2009 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner, Beaten, Writes Letter to President Obama

Shanghai-based petitioner Mao Hengfeng (毛恒风) has asked Human Rights in China (HRIC) to publish a letter she wrote to U.S. President Barack Obama. According to sources, around 11:00 p.m., Sunday, November 15, just as President Obama was arriving in Shanghai, Mao and her husband, Wu Xuewei (吴雪伟),...

November 16, 2009 | Press Work

Letter to President Barack Obama from Ding Zilin

In early November 2009, at the request of Ding Zilin, a member of the Tiananmen Mothers – a group of families of the victims of the June Fourth government crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement – Human Rights in China translated into English a letter by Ding Zilin, and delivered the letter in its...

November 13, 2009 | Press Work

HRIC Urges President Obama to Not Give PRC Leaders a Free Pass on Human Rights

On the eve of U.S. President Barack Obama’s historic visit to China, during which he will discuss with Chinese leaders issues critical to U.S.-China relations, Human Rights in China (HRIC) urges President Obama to ensure that urgent human rights cases and issues are not once again sidelined. From...

November 13, 2009 | Press Work

Organizer of Families of Tainted Milk Powder Victims Detained

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Zhao Lianhai (赵连海), a parent of a victim of melamine-tainted milk powder and a core organizer of affected families nationwide, was detained on the evening of November 13, 2009. Zhao’s wife, Li Xuemei (李雪梅), told HRIC that at around 10:30 p.m. that day...

November 13, 2009 | Press Work

Two-Year Sentence for Property Rights Advocate, 70, Accused of Possessing State Secrets

On November 6, 2009, in a closed trial, a local court in Zhejiang Province sentenced a 70-year-old petitioner, Lin Dagang (林大刚), to two years in prison for illegally possessing state secrets – namely, a document issued by the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development (formerly the Ministry...

November 6, 2009 | Press Work

Rights Activist Beaten and Detained Following Protest

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shen Peilan (沈佩兰), a Shanghai-based forced-evictions petitioner, has been detained. Shen’s husband, Cai Jingcheng(蔡净成), told HRIC that Shen was taken away from their home at 3:00 p.m. on October 29 by officers from the public security bureau of...

October 29, 2009 | Press Work

Petitioner Gets One Year and Six Months for “Obstructing Official Business”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) learned that on October 23, 2009, Duan Chunfang (段春芳), a Shanghai petitioner and Charter ’08 signer, was sentenced by a Shanghai court to one year and six months in prison for “obstructing official business.” Duan’s family members said that this is an unjust ruling...

October 23, 2009 | Press Work

Democracy Activist Gets Ten Years for “Subversion of State Power”

On October 16, 2009, Guo Quan (郭泉), former Nanjing Normal University associate professor and former member of China Democratic League (one of the eight state-approved “democratic” parties), was sentenced to ten years in prison and three years of deprivation of political rights for “subversion of...

October 16, 2009 | Press Work

Case Update: Liang Liwan Released from Police Custody

Informed sources tell Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Zhejiang eviction petitioner Liang Liwan (梁丽婉) has been released from police custody this morning at 11:00 am, Beijing time. She was reportedly threatened but not beaten in detention. Liang was first detained by police on September 23, 2009....

October 8, 2009 | Press Work

Activist Detained After Telling UN Expert of Impending Eviction

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from informed sources that Liang Liwan (梁丽婉), a petitioner of forced eviction and demolition from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, who has been in police custody since September 23, 2009, was moved to an undisclosed location on October 3. Her family currently...

October 7, 2009 | Press Work

HRIC Launches YouTube Channel

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is pleased to announce the launch of the HRIC YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/hrichina). The YouTube channel consists of HRIC-produced videos and playlists of YouTube videos on human rights topics, including: • Tibetan protest in front of the Empire State...

October 1, 2009 | Press Work

Spectacle of Power Cannot Conceal Deep Insecurity

To mark the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China on October 1, the Chinese government is staging a celebration that leaders claim will be unprecedented in scale. 1 Domestically, the government has expended enormous amounts of money and resources and mobilized hundreds...

September 30, 2009 | Press Work

Xie Changfa (谢长发) Receives Severe Sentence of 13 Years’ Imprisonment for Organizing Political Party

On September 1, 2009, Xie Changfa (谢长发), China Democracy Party member in Hunan, was sentenced to thirteen years’ imprisonment and five years’ deprivation of political rights by the Changsha Municipal Intermediate Court for the crime of “subversion of state power.” This is one of the most severe...

September 1, 2009 | Press Work

UN Expert Body Calls for Greater Protections for Ethnic Groups, Rural Inhabitants, and Rights Defenders in China

A United Nations expert body said today that China must “carefully consider the root causes” of inter-ethnic tensions within its borders, particularly in rural ethnic regions such as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) and the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). In relation to the ethnic...

August 28, 2009 | Press Work

Gongmeng Officially Shut Down, Founder Formally Arrested

As the news of the official arrest of well-known rights defender Xu Zhiyong (许志永) emerges, Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the authorities have officially shut down Gongmeng (also known as Open Constitution Initiative, OCI), the public interest group Xu Zhiyong helped found. In July,...

August 18, 2009 | Press Work

Uneven Justice in Case of Policemen and Commander Found Guilty in Death of Detained Man

On August 12, 2009, a court in Jiangxi Province found three policemen and their commander guilty in connection with the death of a man in police custody. The four men – policemen Deng Hongfei (邓鸿飞), Guo Songlin (郭松林), Xiong Yu’er (熊玉儿), and their superior, Xia Xiangdong (夏向东), all belonging to the...

August 17, 2009 | Press Work

Police Beat and Detain Supporters of Sichuan Earthquake Critic Morning before Trial

The trial of Tan Zuoren (谭作人), writer and environmental activist, in the Intermediate People’s Court in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, ended without a court decision today, August 12, 2009. Tan was tried for “incitement to subvert state power.” Before the trial, the well known artist Ai Weiwei (艾未未),...

August 12, 2009 | Press Work

UN Expert Body Wraps Up Dialogue with China on Anti-Discrimination Efforts

On Monday, August 10, in Geneva, a United Nations expert body concluded its dialogue with a Chinese delegation on China’s progress in implementing its obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (the “Convention”). In two review and...

August 10, 2009 | Press Work

At United Nations, China to Answer Broad Range of Concerns over Racial Discrimination

On August 7, 2009, a UN Committee of Experts began its review of China’s progress in implementing its obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (the “Convention”). In introductory remarks before the Committee, Duan Jielong (段洁龙),...

August 7, 2009 | Press Work

Authorities Kidnapped and Prevented Court Appearance by Witness for Huang Qi’s Case

On Aug 5, a closed hearing was held in Chengdu Wuhou District Court on the case of Sichuan rights activist and founder of Tianwang Human Rights Center (天网人权) Huang Qi (黄琦), who was suspected of "illegal possession of state secrets". Huang Qi was arrested by authorities after actively participating...

August 5, 2009 | Press Work

Xu Zhiyong in Custody Seven Days; Still No Official Explanation

Seven days after Xu Zhiyong (许志永), the director of Gongmeng, a public interest organization in Beijing, was taken away by State Security of the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau, there is still no official explanation for his detention. According to unofficial reports, Xu Zhiyong is...

August 4, 2009 | Press Work

China’s Anti-Discrimination Efforts to be Scrutinized by UN on August 7 and 10

Next week in Geneva, China’s efforts in meeting its obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (the “Convention”) will come under scrutiny at the United Nations. China’s review, to be conducted by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial...

July 31, 2009 | Press Work

Raid of Public Interest Group Reveals Degree of Information Control

In a case illustrating just how tightly the Chinese government controls the circulation of information, representatives of two government agencies raided a Beijing public interest group, charging it with publishing its own internal information and a periodical without the required permits. On...

July 29, 2009 | Press Work

China Considers State Secrets Law Revision

On June 22, 2009, a draft revision of China’s Law on Guarding State Secrets (中华人民共和国保守国家秘密法) was given a first reading at the Ninth Session of the Standing Committee of the 11th National People’s Congress (NPC). Although the draft revision was reviewed, it was not adopted by the NPC. Instead, on...

July 24, 2009 | Press Work

Resources on the Draft Revision of the "Law on Guarding State Secrets"

For a comprehensive examination of China’s state secrets system, including a full English translation of and related laws and regulations, see Human Rights in China’s 2007 report State Secrets: China’s Legal Labyrinth. Below is a list of additional resources relating to the draft revision of the...

July 24, 2009 | Press Work

Examples of Cases Involving Charges Related to State Secrets from 2007 to Present

Sun Xiaodi (孙小弟) and Sun Haiyan (孙海燕) (also known as Sun Dunbai (孙敦白)) Sun Xiaodi is a workers’ rights and environmental justice advocate who has fought over 20 years to publicize contamination hazards and corruption in connection with the operation of China’s No. 792 Uranium Mine. On June 10,...

July 24, 2009 | Press Work

Law of the People’s Republic of China on Guarding State Secrets (Revised Draft) (2009) Full Text and Explanation

[English Translation by Human Rights in China, July 2009. Translation of Articles 1-51 based on the English translation of the 1989 Law of the People’s Republic of China on Guarding State Secrets by the Supreme Court of the People’s Republic of China.] The ninth session of the Standing Committee...

July 24, 2009 | Press Work | State Secrets | Access to Information | Information Control

Law Research Center Is Shut Down as Authorities Tighten Control on Civil Society Groups

[Chinese / 中文] Human Rights in China (HRIC) is deeply concerned about the July 17 shutdown of the Gongmeng Law Research Center of the Open Constitution Initiative (OCI), an organization set up to provide legal consultation and assistance to the public. The Beijing Municipal Bureau of Civil Affairs...

July 17, 2009 | Press Work

Environmental Activist Sun Xiaodi Sentenced to Two Years of Reeducation-Through-Labor; Daughter to Year-and-a-Half

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is deeply concerned that Gansu authorities have sentenced well-known environmental activist Sun Xiaodi (孙小弟) to two years of Reeducation-Through Labor (RTL), and his daughter Sun Dunbai (孙敦白), also known as Sun Haiyan (孙海燕), to one-and-a-half years of RTL, for criminal...

July 16, 2009 | Press Work

Environmental Activist Sun Xiaodi and Daughter Face Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL)

On July 10, Hu Jianhong (胡建红), wife of anti-nuclear activist Sun Xiaodi (孙小弟), confirmed with Human Rights in China (HRIC) that the Public Security Bureau of Diebu County, Gansu Province, has recommended at least half-a-year of Reeducation–Through-Labor (RTL) for Sun and their daughter, Sun Haiyan...

July 10, 2009 | Press Work

Relative of Earthquake Victim Receives Three-Year Sentence with Five-Year Suspension

On July 9, 2009, Beichuan County People’s Court in Sichuan Province sentenced He Hongchun (何洪春), a family member of a victim of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, to three years in prison with a five-year suspension. He was convicted of organizing to disrupt social order. Dozens of parents of victims...

July 9, 2009 | Press Work

Police Accused of Killing Detained Man: They Were Ordered to Use Violence

On July 1, the trial of four police officers for involvement in the death of Wan Jianguo (万建国), who died in August 2008 on his 35th day of detention, opened in Nanchang Intermediate People’s Court in Jiangxi Province. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that three of the defendants said...

July 1, 2009 | Press Work

HRIC Strongly Condemns the Formal Arrest of Liu Xiaobo by Chinese Authorities

On June 23, 2009, the Beijing Public Security Bureau formally arrested Dr. Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), a signer of Charter 08, on charges of “suspicion of incitement to subvert state power” (涉嫌煽动颠覆国家政权罪). That Chinese authorities would take such an extreme measure exactly 100 days prior to the 60th...

June 24, 2009 | Press Work

Rights Defense Lawyer Li Subin Sues Beijing and Henan Judicial Authorities

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on June 11, 2009, Chinese rights defense lawyer Li Subin (李苏滨) filed a complaint at Beijing Xicheng District People’s Court against the Beijing Judicial Bureau and Henan Judicial Department. Li alleges that the judicial authorities violated the law in...

June 12, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Lawyer Challenges Filtering Software Order and Requests Public Hearing

Beijing rights defense lawyer Li Fangping (李方平) submitted a request on June 11, 2009, to Li Yizhong (李毅中), Minister of Industry and Information Technology, to hold a hearing on the ministry’s requirement that all computers sold in China – either manufactured in China or imported – be equipped...

June 11, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Government Orders Computer Manufacturers to Pre-install Filtering Software

A Chinese government directive requiring domestic computer manufacturers and manufacturers that export computers to China to pre-install filtering software – “Green Dam Youth Escort” software – was made public on June 8, 2009. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has translated the directive and compiled...

June 8, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Rights Defense Lawyers Under All-out Attack by the Authorities

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that in recent days, the Chinese authorities have used various procedural obstacles, harassment, and even kidnapping to launch an all-out attack on rights defense lawyers. As of June 1, at least 17 Chinese rights defense lawyers did not receive their “annual...

June 4, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Detain Former June Fourth Prisoner Wu Gaoxing after Open Letter

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that freelance writer Wu Gaoxing (吴高兴), a former June Fourth prisoner, was taken by the police from his home in Taizhou, Zhejiang Province, at around 10:00 a.m. on May 30, 2009. Wu is one of the five signers of a recent open letter to President Hu Jintao...

June 1, 2009 | Press Work | June Fourth | Dissidents

Open Letter to China’s Leaders from Five Former June Fourth Prisoners from Zhejiang

Five former prisoners of June Fourth from Zhejiang Province, Wu Gaoxing (吴高兴), Chen Longde (陈龙德), Wang Donghai (王东海), Mao Guoliang (毛国良), and Ye Wenxiang (叶文相), have requested that Human Rights in China (HRIC) release their open letter to Chinese leaders seeking economic redress. They...

May 30, 2009 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers: Public Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre

Tiananmen Mothers: Public Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre This year is the 20th anniversary of the June Fourth Massacre. As a group of Chinese citizens who have lost loved ones in this tragedy, and with profound grief buried in our hearts, we are releasing the...

May 27, 2009 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Beijing Lawyers Beaten for Representing Falun Gong Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing rights defense lawyers Zhang Kai (张凯) and Li Chunfu (李春富) were violently beaten at their client’s home in Chongqing by local police on May 13, 2009. They were then brought to the local police station for interrogation and were locked up in an...

May 13, 2009 | Press Work

Wife of Abducted Rights Defense Lawyer Gao Zhisheng Requests Urgent Help from U.S. Congress in Open Letter

Geng He (耿和), wife of Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), the prominent Chinese rights defense lawyer who has been disappeared since early February 2009, is requesting help from the United States government to put pressure on the Chinese government to disclose Gao’s whereabouts. She has requested that Human Rights...

April 23, 2009 | Press Work

Pursuant to New Court Ruling, Shenzhen Rights Defense Lawyer Liu Yao Released after More than 400 Days in Detention

On April 16, 2009, Liu Yao (刘尧), prominent Shenzhen rights defense lawyer, was released after a fourth trial, on April 10, in which he challenged his conviction of “intentional destruction of properties.” In detention since December 2007, Liu was initially sentenced to four years, a term later...

April 17, 2009 | Press Work

Shanghai Rights Defender Harassed on Heels of National Human Rights Action Plan Release

According to information received by Human Rights in China (HRIC), Zheng Enchong (郑恩宠), a Shanghai-based rights defense lawyer, was detained by the police for ten hours on April 15, 2009. It was the fifth time over the past week that Zheng was summoned by the police. Zheng Enchong believes that...

April 15, 2009 | Press Work

Retired Professor Attacked after Honoring Memory of Late Party Secretary Zhao Ziyang

On April 4, 2009, Sun Wenguang (孙文广), 75, retired professor of Shandong University, was brutally beaten by five unidentified men as he returned from paying respects to memory of the late Zhao Ziyang, former General Secretary of the Communist Party of China who visited students on Tiananmen Square...

April 6, 2009 | Press Work

Shandong Petitioner Sentenced to Reeducation-Through-Labor

On March 17, 2009, Shandong petitioner Zhang Jinfeng (张金凤) was sentenced to one year and nine months of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL). Zhang was detained on March 5, 2009, while taking photos at a peaceful rally of several hundred petitioners in Quancheng Square, Jinan, Shandong Province....

March 31, 2009 | Press Work

Beijing Law Firm Yitong is Shut Down for Six Months; Staff Lawyers Ordered to Turn in Licenses

In a draconian decision on March 17, 2009, the Haidian District Bureau of Justice in Beijing ordered a six-month shutdown of Yitong, the Beijing law firm well known for handling controversial and sensitive cases. In addition, the Bureau ordered the firm to turn in the licenses of all their...

March 18, 2009 | Press Work

Labor Leader Yao Fuxin Is Released after Completing Seven-year Term

On Monday, March 16, 2009, Yao Fuxin (姚福信), a long-time labor activist, was released from Lingyuan No. 2 Prison, Liaoning Province, after completing his seven-year term on conviction of “subversion of state power.” In March 2002, Yao was detained after speaking at a two-day peaceful demonstration...

March 16, 2009 | Press Work

Case Update: Beijing Intellectuals Yang Zili and Zhang Honghai Released after Eight Years in Prison

Beijing intellectuals Yang Zili (杨子立) and Zhang Honghai (张宏海) were released from prison after completing their eight-year term on March 12, 2009, Yang from the Beijing No. 2 Prison, and Zhang from the Qiaosi Prison in Zhejiang Province. They were imprisoned for activities as members of the New...

March 12, 2009 | Press Work

Family of Missing Rights Defense Lawyer Gao Zhisheng Arrives in U.S.

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received news that rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng’s (高智晟) wife and children have safely landed in the United States on March 11, 2009. HRIC warmly welcomes the safe arrival of the Gao family. Gao is well-known for representing politically sensitive cases and...

March 11, 2009 | Press Work

Guizhou Petitioner Ding Fayou Detained

Chen Hong (陈红), a Guizhou petitioner who has been seeking redress for the death of her brother, Chen Jun, told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that her husband, Ding Fayou (丁发有), also a petitioner, has been detained since early March 2009 and beaten in detention. Chen told HRIC that on March 9, a...

March 9, 2009 | Press Work

Beijing Lawyers Association Violates Its Own Rule in Removing Independent Candidates from Election of Representatives

Five qualified independent candidates were barred by the Beijing Lawyers Association (BLA) from the March 4, 2009 runoff election of representatives from the Chaoyang District. The candidates are: Cheng Hai (程海), Zhang Lihui (张立辉), Tong Chaoping (童朝平), Tang Jitian (唐吉田) and Yang Huiwen (杨惠文). All...

March 6, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Tighten Grip on Rights Defenders during NPC and CPPCC Sessions

Chinese authorities have intensified crackdowns on rights defenders and petitioners during the current annual sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), commonly known as the “Two Congresses”, convening in Beijing. Human...

March 5, 2009 | Press Work

In Open Letter, Tiananmen Mothers Urge China's Leaders to Investigate June 4

In advance of the 20th anniversary of the June 4, 1989, military crackdown on the democracy demonstrations in Tiananmen Square, the Tiananmen Mothers, a group of mothers and relatives who lost their loved ones during the government action, has asked Human Rights in China (HRIC) to make public a...

February 26, 2009 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Dissident Writer Interrogated for Publishing Critical Articles

The Chinese government stated categorically during the UN Universal Periodic Review of the country's human rights record just earlier this month that there is no censorship in China. But punishing a writer for criticizing government actions is censorship. — Sharon Hom, Executive Director of HRIC...

February 23, 2009 | Press Work

Beijing Law Firm Faces Six-Month Shutdown for Attorneys' Support of Direct Bar Election

The Beijing Yitong Law Firm was given notice that it will be shut down for six months for, the authorities claimed, allowing a lawyer in the firm to practice without a license. However, the lawyer in question, Li Subin (李苏滨), said that most likely the authorities wanted to punish the firm because...

February 19, 2009 | Press Work

In Joint Letter, HRIC Urges Secretary of State Clinton to Make Human Rights Concerns a Priority in Trip to China

On February 12, 2009, Human Rights in China signed a joint letter, with six other human rights group, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, urging U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to make human rights issues a prominent topic in her discussions with the Chinese leadership...

February 13, 2009 | Press Work

Case Update: Elderly Activist Shuang Shuying Released; Reports Abuses in Prison

Shuang Shuying (双淑英), 77, evictions activist and mother of house church pastor Hua Huiqi (华惠棋), was released from the Beijing Women’s Prison on Sunday morning, February 8, 2009. In an interview with HRIC on the day of her release, Shuang recounted the abuses she suffered in prison. Shuang served a...

February 13, 2009 | Press Work

China Rejects UN Recommendations for Substantive Reform to Advance Human Rights; HRIC Summary

In the report of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of China issued by the UPR Working Group this morning, while accepting some recommendations on the promotion of human rights in general, China rejected many of the recommendations made by UN member states to implement specific measures and...

February 11, 2009 | Press Work

China's UN Human Rights Review: New Process, Old Politics, Weak Implementation Prospects

The examination of China’s first Universal Periodic Review (UPR) report by the UN Human Rights Council concluded this morning. The Chinese delegation, led by Chinese Ambassador Li Baodong, dismissed concerns raised by many countries over China’s human rights practices as “politicized statements.”...

February 9, 2009 | Press Work

Torture Account by Missing Rights Defense Lawyer Gao Zhisheng

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an account by rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng (高智晟) from a reliable source, detailing his kidnapping and torture in September 2007. Gao was sentenced to three years in prison in December 2006 on charges of “inciting subversion” for writing a series of...

February 8, 2009 | Press Work

Implementation and Protection of Human Rights in the People's Republic of China

A parallel NGO report by Human Rights in China (HRIC), submitted to the Human Rights Council in advance of its review of the human rights practices of the People’s Republic of China for the first time. Full Report with Executive Summary [PDF, 109K]Abridged Chinese Translation of the Report [PDF,...

February 7, 2009 | Press Work

More than 500 Chinese Lawyers Sign Petition against Colleague’s Jail Sentence

In the largest joint signature campaign to date by China’s legal community, 511 lawyers in Shenzhen signed a joint petition challenging the prison sentence of a fellow lawyer, Liu Yao (刘尧), and calling for a fair trial. Liu represented peasants in Paitou Village, located in Dongyuan County, Heyuan...

February 2, 2009 | Press Work

Human Rights Lawyer in Arbitrary Detention

The Chinese government should immediately disclose the whereabouts of Gao Zhisheng (高智晟), a leading human rights lawyer who disappeared two weeks ago, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and Human Rights in China said today in a joint statement. The three organizations stressed that Gao was...

February 2, 2009 | Press Work

Petitioner Mao Hengfeng Has Been Detained after November Release from Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤), Shanghai-based petitioner and rights defender, was detained on January 12 and will be held for seven days by Shanghai police for shouting slogans in public. Mao was released from prison in November 2008 after serving a two-year-and-...

January 13, 2009 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Continue to Suppress Charter 08; Number of Signers Exceeds 7,200

In the month since Charter 08 was first issued on December 9, 2008, the Chinese authorities, in addition to detaining one of its signers, independent intellectual Liu Xiaobo (刘晓波), have mobilized police forces across the country to summon, threaten, harass and monitor other signers. The signers...

January 9, 2009 | Press Work

Zeng Jinyan's Sakharov Prize Acceptance Speech on behalf of Hu Jia

Zeng Jinyan (曾金燕), wife of imprisoned HIV/AIDS activist and rights defender, Hu Jia (胡佳), accepted the European Parliament's 2008 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought on behalf of Hu, via a video appearance at the award ceremony at the European Parliament in Strasbourg at noon on December 17. Hu...

December 17, 2008 | Press Work

Independent Scholars Detained: Start of 2009 Crackdown?

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a diverse group of 303 Chinese writers, intellectuals, lawyers, journalists, retired Party officials, workers, peasants, and businessmen have issued an open letter – "Charter 08" – calling for legal reforms, democracy...

December 9, 2008 | Press Work

Charter 08

December 9, 2008 Translation by HRIC I. Preamble This year marks 100 years since China’s [first] Constitution,1 the 60th anniversary of the promulgation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the 30th anniversary of the birth of the Democracy Wall, and the 10th year since the Chinese...

December 9, 2008 | Press Work

Two Guizhou Rights Activists Detained

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that two Guizhou rights activists have been detained by the authorities on the eve of Human Rights Day, December 10, which commemorates the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Another rights activist who had "disappeared" sent a text message that he would...

December 5, 2008 | Press Work

Rights Activist’s Family Sends Appeal after Home Was Demolished

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that, on November 21, 2008, authorities in Beijing’s Xicheng District used a bulldozer to demolish the home of rights defense activist Ni Yulan (倪玉兰), who has been in detention since April 2008 without a trial. Her husband, Dong Jiqin (董继勤),has been made...

November 24, 2008 | Press Work

UN Committee Says China "Should Take Immediate Steps to Prevent Acts of Torture"

In a sweeping report, the United Nations (UN) Committee against Torture today issued its review findings on China’s compliance with its international treaty obligations to end torture. The Committee said that it “remains deeply concerned about the continued allegations, corroborated by numerous...

November 21, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns XUAR Authorities' Plans to Force Six-Month Pregnant Woman to Undergo Abortion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the authorities in Ghulja (Yining Prefecture in Chinese) in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) plan to force a six-and-a-half-month pregnant Uyghur woman to undergo an abortion imminently. UPDATE: Nov 19, 2008 Uyghur Woman, Arzigul Tursun,...

November 18, 2008 | Press Work

Guizhou Police Threaten Rights Group over Commemoration of 60th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that members of a group planning a human rights seminar in December in Guiyang, Guizhou Province, have been threatened by the police. Members of the group vow that they will not back down. Led by Chen Xi (陈西), Shen Youlian (申有连), and Liao Xuangyuan (廖双元),...

November 13, 2008 | Press Work

UN Experts: “Serious Information Gap” on China’s Efforts to End Torture

A United Nations (UN) body of independent experts voiced concern today that China has not presented sufficient information to show its compliance with its international obligation to end torture. During a two-day review in Geneva, Chinese representatives defended the country’s record, claiming that...

November 10, 2008 | Press Work

Prominent Advocate of Direct Local Elections Is Disappeared by Authorities

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Yao Lifa (姚立法), a teacher in Hubei province and prominent proponent of direct elections, disappeared on October 31, 2008, on the eve of the election of the Qianjiang Municipal People's Congress in Hubei. Local authorities admitted that they were...

November 4, 2008 | Press Work

Rights Defender Subjected to Torture in Prison is Denied Access to Lawyer

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄, also known as Yang Maodong, 杨茂东), who was tortured by prison authorities and brutally beaten by an inmate, has been denied access to his lawyer. Guo is serving a five-year sentence in Meizhou Prison, Guangdong Province, and intends to...

November 3, 2008 | Press Work

Beijing Lawyers' Appeal for Direct Elections

Keep Pace with the Course of History, Implement Lawyers Association Direct Election: An Appeal to All Beijing Lawyers, the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Justice, and the Beijing Municipal Lawyers Association Appeal by 35 lawyers posted on August 26, 2008Translation by Human Rights in China To all...

October 31, 2008 | Press Work

Lawyers Are Dismissed by Firms for Supporting Beijing Lawyers Association Direct Election, Law Firms Are Threatened

Prominent rights defense lawyers Cheng Hai (程海) and Li Subin (李苏濱) were asked to leave their positions at the Beijing Yitong Law Firm on October 30, 2008. They are among 35 lawyers who published an appeal on the Internet on August 26, 2008, calling for direct election of the officials of the state-...

October 31, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Congratulates Hu Jia, Recipient of 2008 Sakharov Prize

Human Rights in China is very pleased to learn that Chinese rights activist Hu Jia (胡佳) has been honored with the 2008 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. As this year marks the 60th anniversary of the United Nations' Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the European Parliament's conferral of...

October 23, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Calls for Press Freedom for all Journalists in China

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the Chinese government's decision to make permanent the temporary media regulations that have provided greater freedom for foreign journalists reporting in China since January 2007. HRIC urges the Chinese government, having delivered on its earlier assurances...

October 17, 2008 | Press Work

Security Forces Beat Impoverished Villagers Seeking Redress for Man-Made Disaster

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on October 8, 2008, around 1:00 P.M., hundreds of peasants organized a peaceful sit-in and blocked traffic at a major road in Sanjiang town (三江镇), Guangdong province. Witnesses reported that more than five hundred police officers, military police (武警),...

October 8, 2008 | Press Work

Sichuan Teacher, Liu Shaokun, was Released to Serve his Reeducation-Through-Labor Sentence Outside of Labor Camp

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Liu Shaokun (刘绍坤), who was sentenced to one year of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) after posting online his photographs of collapsed school buildings in quake-affected areas, was released by the authorities on Wednesday, September 24, to serve his...

September 26, 2008 | Press Work

Chengdu House Church Files First Suit in China Against Government Religious Authority

In what is believed to be the first suit against a government religious authority in China, the chief organizer of the Qiuyu Blessings Church—a Christian house church in Chengdu city—is suing the Shuangliu County Bureau of People's Religious Affairs for illegally shutting down a religious gathering...

September 18, 2008 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng, Petitioner on Family Planning Issues, Reports Continued Abuse in Prison

Human Rights in China has learned that Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤), who began serving a two-and-a-half year sentence in December 2006 in the Shanghai Women’s Prison, continues to be physically and mentally abused in prison. She has not been allowed visits by family members for more than 10 months. Her...

September 16, 2008 | Press Work

Petitioners Call Sentence Repeal a "Victory for Civilization," Thank International Media

On August 17, during the Beijing Olympics, Wu Dianyuan (吴殿元), 79, and Wang Xiuying (王秀英), 77, petitioners who had been forcibly evicted from their Beijing homes in 2001 to make way for Olympics construction, were ordered to serve one year of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL).* Their crimes: applying...

September 15, 2008 | Press Work

Open Letter to Meizhou Prison

Human Rights in China sent an open letter to Meizhou Prison to appeal for better treatment for Guo Feixiong. An English translation of the letter is below. [English Translation] September 10, 2008 Guangdong Province Meizhou Prison66 Meizhou No. 3 RoadMeizhou, Guangdong 512035 Dear Leaders of...

September 10, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC September Take Action: Put an End to Torture in China

Although torture is illegal in China under both international and domestic law, there is ample evidence that torture is used by police, state security, and prison officials to extract confessions, and as a tool for political repression. In August 2007, Zhu Xiaoqing, China’s Deputy Procurator-...

September 10, 2008 | Press Work

Authorities Relent on Reeducation-Through-Labor Sentence for Elderly Women who Applied for Protest Permit

Human Rights in China has learned that, on August 29, the Beijing Municipal Reeducation-Through-Labor Decision Committee rescinded its decision to sentence two elderly women to a year of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) – less than two weeks after the decision was delivered. Wu Dianyuan (吴殿元), 79,...

August 29, 2008 | Press Work

Imprisoned Democracy Activist Hu Shigen Released

Human Rights in China has learned that the Chinese authorities have released long-term political prisoner and veteran democracy advocate Hu Shigen (胡石根). Hu was released Tuesday, August 26, 2008, after serving sixteen years of a twenty-year sentence. “We welcome the release of Hu Shigen, but it is...

August 26, 2008 | Press Work

2008 Beijing Olympics: The Price of National Glorification

On Sunday evening, Beijing concluded the 29th Olympiad that had opened 16 days ago with a ceremony that awed and mesmerized spectators and television viewers around the world. Under the spotlight of the international media, the Chinese government presented exalted images of China's history and...

August 24, 2008 | Press Work

Two Beijing Residents Sentenced to Reeducation-Through-Labor After Applying for Permits to Demonstrate in Olympics "Protest Zones"

Human Rights in China has learned that Beijing petitioners Wu Dianyuan (吴殿元) and Wang Xiuying (王秀英) have been ordered to serve a one-year term of Reeducation-Through-Labor (RTL) after repeatedly applying for permits to hold demonstrations in the Beijing "protest zones" during the Olympics. Wu and...

August 19, 2008 | Press Work

In Hiding, Beijing House Church Activist Hua Huiqi Appeals for Help

In a letter to Human Rights in China (appended below), Beijing house church activist Hua Huiqi (华惠棋) details his abduction on Sunday, August 10, by State Security police and appeals for help. Hua was seized on his way to a church service also attended by U.S. President Bush but managed to escape...

August 11, 2008 | Press Work

Bird's Nest Painting Banned

[Chinese / 中文] Bird's Nest, in the Style of Cubist36 X 48 inchOil on canvas2008 On July 3, Chinese customs officers seized a painting by noted China-born, New York-based artist Zhang Hongtu, which depicts the National Stadium in Beijing, popularly referred to as the Bird's Nest. Titled "Bird's...

August 9, 2008 | Press Work

Human Rights Situation in China Worsens as Bush Calls for a More Open Society

On the eve of the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, as President Bush urges Chinese leaders to grant greater freedom to the people of China, sources from within the country have informed Human Rights in China that Chinese authorities continue to detain, harass, coerce, and monitor rights...

August 7, 2008 | Press Work

Political Prisoner He Depu Writes to IOC President Jacques Rogge

He Depu (何德普), a veteran dissident serving an eight year prison sentence, appeals to International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge in a letter released today to Human Rights in China by his family. In his letter, He Depu tells President Rogge that prison conditions in China have...

August 6, 2008 | Press Work

In Name of "Petitioners Relief Campaign" Local Authorities in Guizhou Deceive Petitioners in Death Case

Human Rights in China has learned that, under the banner of the nationwide "Petitioners Relief Campaign," authorities in Liupanshui city, Guizhou province have tricked petitioning couple Ding Fayou and Chen Hong who have been seeking redress for Chen's brother who was shot dead by a policeman in...

August 1, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC August Take Action: Support the Right to Housing in China and Say "No" to Forced Evictions

As the Chinese government welcomes athletes and spectators from around the world to Beijing, beautified with a staggering sum of $42 billion, the city is also leaving behind a trail of wrecked homes and evicted residents with inadequate or no compensation for their lost properties. Even as the...

August 1, 2008 | Press Work

Sichuan Teacher to Serve One Year of RTL for Posting Photos of Collapsed School Buildings Online

Human Rights in China has learned that Liu Shaokun (刘绍坤), a Sichuan school teacher who photographed collapsed school buildings in quake-affected areas and posted his pictures online, has been ordered to serve one year of Reeducation-Through-Labor (劳动教养) (RTL). Despite making several attempts, Liu’s...

July 29, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Authorities Denied Bail and Medicines for Detained Activist Huang Qi

Human Rights in China has learned that authorities denied permission to detained rights activist Huang Qi’s (黄琦) wife, Zeng Li (曾丽), and mother, Pu Wenqing (浦文清), to bring Huang medicine or submit an application for his release on bail. They were denied access by an officer at the Chengdu Wuhou...

July 28, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Imprisoned Activist Ye Guozhu's Release Delayed on Eve of Olympic Games

Human Rights in China strongly condemns the arbitrary detention of jailed housing activist Ye Guozhu (叶国柱) who was due to be released on July 26, 2008. The arbitrary detention of Ye Guozhu after completion of his four years sentence demonstrates the extreme measures the Chinese authorities will...

July 26, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Security Forces Detain Rights Activists Huang Xiaomin and Wei Zhenling

Human Rights in China has learned that state security forces detained Huang Xiaomin (黄晓敏) and Wei Zhenling (魏桢凌) on July 25, 2008. Huang and Wei are the heads of the Sichuan and Zhejiang branches, respectively, of the Pan-Blue Alliance (泛蓝联盟), an online group of political and rights activists....

July 25, 2008 | Press Work

Wife of Jailed “Barefoot Lawyer” Chen Guangcheng Addresses Open Letter to President Hu Jintao

Watching the Olympic torch pass through Linyi City, Shandong Province on July 21, Yuan Weijing (袁伟静) composed an open letter to President Hu Jintao, calling on him to remember the plight of her husband, jailed “barefoot lawyer” Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚) and lamenting that she and her daughter remain...

July 23, 2008 | Press Work

Crackdown Worsens on Eve of Beijing Games

Just over two weeks before the Olympic Games open in Beijing, Chinese authorities continue to intensify their efforts, under the banner of a "peaceful Olympics" (平安奥运), to suppress rights activists and other individuals speaking out against repression. "The current state of affairs is intolerable...

July 22, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Detained Rights Activist Huang Qi Formally Arrested

Detained rights activist Huang Qi (黄琦) was formally arrested by Sichuan police the afternoon of Friday, July 18, Human Rights in China has learned. Huang, who travelled to the Sichuan earthquake zone and published news about the plight of parents who lost children in the disaster, was detained by...

July 18, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC July Take Action: Support Religious Freedom and Cultural Rights for Ethnic Minorities

Tenzin Delek Rinpoche, a renowned and popular Tibetan Buddhist leader, remains in prison serving a life sentence for "crimes of terror and incitement of separatism." Prior to his arrest, he was active in promoting Tibetan education and culture in his home region, the Garze Tibetan Autonomous...

July 9, 2008 | Press Work

Rights Crackdown Intensifies a Month before the Games

Only one month before the Beijing Games open, the Chinese authorities have significantly escalated and broadened their systematic crackdown on rights defense activities, religious and cultural expression, and critical voices. The efforts of the authorities to maintain control now include targeting...

July 8, 2008 | Press Work

Rights Lawyers Prevented from Meeting U.S. Congressmen

On June 29, Beijing authorities harassed and prevented prominent rights defense lawyers in China from meeting with two U.S. Congressmen who were part of a U.S. delegation visiting Beijing. “With less than five weeks to go before the Beijing Games, the Chinese authorities are not only treating...

July 1, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Activist Hua Huiqi and Family Beaten

Human Rights in China has learned that during the evening of July 1, 2008, police from the Chongwen District Branch Office of the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and the State Security Bureau in Beijing, accompanied by more than 30 additional people, forced open the door of Beijing-based house church...

July 1, 2008 | Press Work

Children of Rights Defender Guo Feixiong Barred from School Enrollment

Human Rights in China deplores the Guangzhou authorities' efforts to prevent the children of an imprisoned rights defender from attending school and urges Premier Wen Jiabao (温家宝) to protect the two children from such attempts to inflict punishment on the family as a whole. Zhang Qing (张青), the...

June 30, 2008 | Press Work

Lawyer Launches Test of New Open Government Regulations

A Beijing lawyer has launched a test of China’s new Open Government Information (OGI) Regulations (政府信息公开条例), which, according to the OGI, are intended to "ensure that citizens, legal persons and other organizations (公民、法人和其他组织) can obtain government information by lawful means, and increase...

June 27, 2008 | Press Work | Open Government Information | Reeducation-Through-Labor

Case Update: Huang Qi Denied Access to Counsel

Human Rights in China has learned that rights activist Huang Qi (黄琦) has been denied access to legal counsel after more than 2 weeks in detention. Huang, who travelled to the Sichuan earthquake zone and published news about the plight of parents who lost children in the disaster, was detained by...

June 24, 2008 | Press Work

Torch Relay in Tibet: Spectacle over Substance

Human Rights in China is deeply concerned by the Chinese authorities' decision to send the Olympic torch through the Tibetan capital of Lhasa on Saturday. This leg of the relay was originally scheduled for June 19 to 21, but in the aftermath of the Sichuan earthquake, Beijing officials announced...

June 20, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Block Comedy Central and Other Entertainment Websites

Human Rights in China has learned that the Chinese authorities are currently (as of June 19) blocking an IP address hosting Comedy Central, the U.S.-based comedy cable television channel, along with several other entertainment websites. How can China aspire to the world stage when it continues to...

June 19, 2008 | Press Work

Press Release: Revised ‘Lawyers Law’ Fails to Protect Lawyers

Human Rights in China is deeply concerned that the revised Lawyers Law (律师法), which came into force on June 1, 2008, is already falling short of its goal to "protect the practice of law by lawyers" because of flawed local implementation and the continued abuse by the authorities of China’s highly...

June 19, 2008 | Press Work

Rights Activist Huang Qi Detained on Suspicion of Holding State Secrets

Rights activist Huang Qi has been criminally detained on suspicion of illegally possessing state secrets after visiting the Sichuan earthquake zone and publishing news about the plight of parents who lost children in the disaster, Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned. Huang's family was...

June 16, 2008 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Condemns the Detention of Huang Qi by Police in Chengdu

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information that police in Chengdu confirm the detention of Huang Qi, a leading Internet human rights activist, who was reported taken away in a car by unidentified individuals on June 10, 2008. With less than 60 days left before the opening of the...

June 14, 2008 | Press Work

June Fourth Memorial Activities Closely Monitored in China

Human Rights in China has learned that authorities have closely monitored activities carried out on the occasion of the 19th anniversary of the 1989 June Fourth crackdown, and harassed numerous individuals attempting to commemorate the anniversary. The Tiananmen Mothers, an organization of family...

June 5, 2008 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers | Surveillance

Legal Guidelines for Foreigners—Olympic Traps for Foreigners?

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is today issuing an English translation of the Chinese government's reference guide for foreign visitors to the Beijing Olympics, which open on August 8. The "Legal Guidelines for Foreigners Entering, Exiting and Staying in China during the Olympics," released June 2,...

June 5, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Must Release All June Fourth Prisoners

Nineteen years after the violent June 4, 1989 crackdown on students and other citizens peacefully calling for greater openness and democracy in China, an untold number of people remain in prison for "crimes" relating to their activism. As the Chinese authorities respond to the devastating Sichuan...

June 4, 2008 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Chinese Authorities Abuse Licensing System to Harass Rights Defenders

Human Rights in China deplores the Chinese authorities' abuse of its lawyer registration system to harass lawyers who defend people's rights. Judicial authorities have refused to renew the licenses of two lawyers, including Teng Biao (滕彪), one of China's most active rights defense lawyers. With the...

June 2, 2008 | Press Work

“Tiananmen Mothers” Website Blocked in China

Human Rights in China strongly condemns the Chinese government’s block of the Tiananmen Mothers' website (tiananmenmother.org) within China just hours after its launch on May 28. If the authorities continue to cover up the truth of the events of 19 years ago, how can the international community...

HRIC Deplores Intimidation of Rights Activists Ahead of U.S.-China Talks on Human Rights

Human Rights in China condemns a recent crackdown on Beijing-based activists coinciding with the resumption of talks on human rights between the United States and China. Several human rights and democracy activists were put under heightened surveillance and their movements restricted before U.S....

May 27, 2008 | Press Work

“Tiananmen Mothers” Publish Maps Including Locations of June Fourth Victims' Deaths

Commemorating the 19th anniversary of the Chinese authorities' violent crackdown on the 1989 Democracy Movement, the Tiananmen Mothers are releasing maps marking the location of victims' deaths and the hospitals where the bodies of the dead were taken. "In the aftermath of the May 12 Sichuan...

May 27, 2008 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Congratulations to the Tiananmen Mothers on the Establishment of their Website

As we commemorate the 19th anniversary of June Fourth, the Tiananmen Mothers website has been set up. With respect to the victims, this is an especially meaningful memorial. On this occasion, we would like to express our deep grief for those who were killed on June Fourth, as well as our great...

May 27, 2008 | Press Work | Tiananmen Mothers | Technology | Internet

Wife of Jailed Activist Targeted and Harassed

Human Rights in China is deeply concerned by the Chinese authorities' continuing misuse of the law to persecute Yuan Weijing (袁伟静), the wife of jailed blind activist and barefoot lawyer Chen Guangcheng (陈光诚). Most recently, a Chinese court on May 14 upheld a decision by Beijing authorities to...

May 14, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Raid Religious Gathering, Confiscate Bibles, Detain Church Members

Human Rights in China condemns last week's raid on Chengdu Qiuyu Blessings Church by Chengdu religious affairs authorities who declared the gathering to be illegal, seized Bibles and other religious materials and detained the church members. “The harassment of independent religious activities such...

May 8, 2008 | Press Work

Labor Activists Still Facing Harsh Treatment

As the world celebrates the May 1 Labor Day holiday, labor activist Yao Fuxin (姚福信) languishes in prison simply for leading workers in a peaceful demonstration, serving as a reminder of the Chinese government's refusal to respect internationally recognized workers' rights. "Chinese policy,...

May 1, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Intruders Threaten to Beat Lawyer Zheng Enchong

Human Rights in China has learned that unidentified men today burst into the Shanghai home of rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong (郑恩宠), threatening to beat him if he continues to speak out about the situation in Tibet. Two people burst into Zheng’s apartment at 10 a.m., demanding to speak to the...

April 30, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns Official Interference in Access to Justice in Rights Defense Cases: Hu Jia, Guo Feixiong

Human Rights in China condemns the Chinese prison authorities' interference in the communication of imprisoned rights defenders, Hu Jia (胡佳) and Guo Feixiong (郭飞雄) (aka Yang Maodong 杨茂东), with their lawyers and families, undermining their access to justice. To ensure effective legal counsel and...

April 21, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns Growing Harassment against HIV/AIDS Petitioners

Human Rights in China denounces a wave of police attacks and harassment targeting people living with HIV/AIDS in China. In response to the detention on April 5 in Hebei of eleven individuals who petitioned the government for relief after contracting the HIV virus through blood transfusions, two...

April 21, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: HRIC Calls upon Chinese Authorities to Release Information on Tibetan TV Producer and Other Detained Individuals

Human Rights in China (HRIC) calls on the PRC authorities to immediately release information about Tibetan performer, writer, and television producer Jamyang Kyi. "With thousands of Tibetans detained or disappeared since the protests that began on March 10, Chinese officials must provide...

April 17, 2008 | Press Work

Writer Lü Gengsong's Sentence Upheld

Human Rights in China condemns the denial of Hangzhou-based writer Lü Gengsong's appeal of a four-year prison sentence handed down on the basis of essays he had posted online. "The denial of Lü Gengsong's appeal clearly confirms the hard line towards free expression maintained by the Chinese...

April 16, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Target Lawyers Offering Legal Assistance to Tibetans

Human Rights in China is deeply concerned by reports of official threats against Chinese lawyers offering legal aid to Tibetan detainees. “These threats by the Chinese authorities politicize and undermine the independence of the legal profession and China’s goal of establishing a rule of law,” said...

April 9, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Press Advisory: Chinese Lawyers Offer Legal Help to Detained Tibetans

Eighteen Chinese lawyers have made a public offer to provide legal help to Tibetans detained in connection with last month's protests in the Lhasa area and the subsequent violent crackdown on these protests by the Chinese security forces. Their offer of legal assistance, which appeared this week on...

April 4, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Denounces Conviction of Prominent Activist Hu Jia

Human Rights in China condemns as deplorable today’s conviction by a Chinese court of long-time HIV/AIDS activist and rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) on politicized charges of “inciting subversion of state power.”“Hu Jia's sham trial, and his conviction, confirms the Chinese government’s policy of...

April 3, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Health at Risk for Jailed Democracy Activist He Depu

Human Rights in China has learned that the health of He Depu (何德普) continues to deteriorate in Beijing No. 2 Prison, and urges the Chinese authorities to release him so the veteran dissident can obtain badly needed medical treatment. Sources in China informed Human Rights in China that He told his...

April 2, 2008 | Press Work

Ethnic Minorities Remain Marginalized, Tensions Rise

Ethnic minorities in the People's Republic of China continue to be marginalized and excluded, resulting in infringements on their rights to preserve their unique cultural identities and express their beliefs. Ethnic rights activists such as Hada (哈达), who has been actively promoting indigenous...

April 1, 2008 | Press Work

Five-Year Sentence of Olympics Critic Not Human Rights Progress

Human Rights in China condemns the sentencing of land rights defender and Olympics critic Yang Chunlin (杨春林) to five years’ imprisonment on March 24, 2008. The same day, the Olympic torch was lit in Greece, and IOC Chairman Jacques Rogge stated that "the Games have advanced the agenda of human...

March 24, 2008 | Press Work

Politicized Trial of Rights Defender Hu Jia Guts Freedom of Expression in China

The trial of long-time HIV/AIDS activist and rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) took place on March 18 in Beijing No. 1 Intermediate People's Court; the sentence has not yet been announced. The charge against Hu of "inciting subversion of state power" reportedly stems from his Internet articles on the...

March 18, 2008 | Press Work

Stop Crackdowns in Tibet, Start Dialogue

Human Rights in China expresses its deep concern about the increasingly tense situation in Tibet following protests since Monday. Despite ongoing crackdowns in Tibet, demonstrations continue to grow with the recent protests, reported as the largest since 1989. "It appears that Tibetans may be...

March 14, 2008 | Press Work

Drop Politically-Motivated Charges against Hu Jia

Human Rights in China condemns the indictment of long-time HIV/AIDS activist and rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) on charges of “inciting subversion of state power.” “Hu’s indictment, following close on the heels of the abduction and questioning of human rights lawyer Teng Biao, and the attack on lawyer...

March 12, 2008 | Press Work

Violent Assaults on Rights Defense Lawyers Must Stop

According to Human Rights in China (HRIC) sources, Beijing-based rights defense lawyer Teng Biao (滕彪) was abducted on the night of March 6, 2008, and remains missing. HRIC sources state that on the night of his abduction, Teng Biao contacted his family around 8:25 pm, saying that he would soon be...

March 7, 2008 | Press Work

Families of Lü Gengsong and He Depu Appeal to National People's Congress

Sources in China have informed Human Rights in China (HRIC) that anti-corruption writer Lü Gengsong (吕耿松) and democracy activist He Depu (何德普) are suffering from deteriorating health and inadequate medical treatment in prison. Their families have issued open letters urging the authorities to take...

March 3, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Press Advisory: Petitioners Face Ongoing Abuse

Mao Hengfeng (毛恒凤) petitioned for redress of coercive and abusive implementation of China’s Family Planning Policy. Shuang Shuying (双淑英) petitioned for official intervention in cases of forced eviction. Ye Jinghuan (野靖环) petitioned for a government investigation into an investment scam that cost...

March 3, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Should Respond to Calls for Dialogue by the Tiananmen Mothers

NEW YORK - At the request of Ding Zilin on behalf of the Tiananmen Mothers, Human Rights in China is releasing the attached open letter to the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), which are scheduled to meet in early March. Issued just...

February 27, 2008 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Zheng Enchong Detained and Beaten Again

Human Rights in China has learned that Shanghai rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong (郑恩宠) was detained again on February 20 after several days of harassment by police and unidentified thugs. Zheng was released in the evening, but while in detention he was beaten by an unidentified person. Sources...

February 20, 2008 | Press Work

Chinese Scholars and Activists Demand Equality for Migrant Workers in China

In an open letter dated February 15, 2008, Chinese scholars, reporters, democracy activists, writers, and lawyers inside and outside China appeal to the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Congress to establish equality for China's migrant workers. The letter...

February 14, 2008 | Press Work

Ching Cheong's Release Sends Mixed Message

The release of imprisoned journalist Ching Cheong (程翔) one day before the sentencing of writer Lü Gengsong (吕耿松) to four years in prison sends a mixed message: releasing one prisoner, while sentencing another. “In the context of recent official media statements on loosening Internet controls, Lü’s...

February 5, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns the Formal Arrest of Hu Jia

Human Rights in China (HRIC) condemns the formal arrest of rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) on charges of “inciting subversion of state power.” Hu’s family was informed of his formal arrest on January 30. Police had reportedly told Hu's family that they were investigating him for articles he had posted...

February 1, 2008 | Press Work

With Six-Month Olympic Countdown Looming, HRIC Calls on China to Release Chen Guangcheng

Human Rights in China calls on the Chinese government to implement its promise to respect human rights during the Olympic Games by releasing barefoot Chinese lawyer Chen Guangcheng. “An independent bar, which is fundamental to the rule of law, must mean that lawyers can do their work without fear...

February 1, 2008 | Press Work

Case Update: Shanghai Petitioner Xu Zhengqing Released from Prison

Human Rights in China has learned that Shanghai petitioner and rights defender Xu Zhengqing was released from Shanghai’s Tilanqiao Prison on the morning of January 29 after completing a three-year sentence for “provoking an incident, thereby causing a serious disturbance.” Xu Zhengqing told Human...

January 29, 2008 | Press Work

Activist Issues Statement Urging International Attention to Ban of Human Rights Day in Guizhou

Human Rights in China has received a statement from Guizhou human rights defender Chen Xi calling for international attention and action in response to the Guizhou local authorities' ban on Human Rights Day activities in December 2007. As part of the ban authorities in Guizhou and other provinces...

January 25, 2008 | Press Work

Writer Lü Gengsong’s Trial Held Today

Human Rights in China has learned that Hangzhou-based writer Lü Gengsong was tried this morning on charges of “inciting subversion of state power.” Lü and his lawyers maintain his innocence; no verdict has yet been announced. Numerous activists attempted to attend the trial despite warnings not to...

January 22, 2008 | Press Work

Li Jinping Harassed and Detained ahead of Anniversary of Zhao Ziyang’s Death

Human Rights in China has learned that Beijing police have been using daily detentions to harass rights defender Li Jinping (李金平). These detentions began on January 2; Li is taken to a police substation each morning and kept under surveillance until 10 pm each night. The police officers allegedly...

January 15, 2008 | Press Work

Writer Lü Gengsong Indicted

Human Rights in China has learned that Hangzhou-based writer Lü Gengsong will stand trial on January 22, 2008, on charges of “inciting subversion of state power.” A Hangzhou Intermediate People’s Court judge reportedly called Lü Gengsong’s wife, Wang Xue’e, on the morning of January 11, telling...

January 11, 2008 | Press Work

Press Advisory: HRIC Launches 2008 Take Action Website and Calls on China to Release Shi Tao

Human Rights in China’s Incorporating Responsibility 2008 Take Action Campaign (http://www.ir2008.org) highlights individuals in detention and systemic human rights challenges. Each month, the Take Action Campaign will focus on a selected case, beginning in January with Shi Tao, and identify human...

January 2, 2008 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: HRIC Condemns Abuse and Torture of Chinese Legal Advisor

Human Rights in China (HRIC) strongly condemns the beating of Chinese rights defender and legal advisor Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) in prison. Reports of this beating are of particular concern in the lead-up to China’s review by the United Nations Committee Against Torture in November...

December 31, 2007 | Press Work

Beijing Police Harass Housing Activist Li Jinping

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing police have harassed and intimidated rights defender Li Jinping (李金平). HRIC was told by the brother of Beijing housing activist Li Jinping that Beijing police intercepted Li on the morning of December 28, as he was on his way to check on fellow...

December 28, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: Protest the Detention of Hu Jia

Human Rights in China (HRIC) strongly condemns the detention of rights defender Hu Jia (胡佳) on December 27 and demands his immediate release. The Beijing police reportedly detained Hu Jia on suspicion of "(inciting) subversion of state power." In the lead-up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the...

December 28, 2007 | Press Work

Case Update: Petitioner Gong Haoming Released Pending Investigation and Trial

Human Rights in China has learned from Shanghai petitioner Gong Haoming’s wife, Li Ping, that Gong has been released on the guarantee of Li Ping pending trial for one year. Gong, who helped to organize an open letter entitled, “We Want Human Rights, Not the Olympics” in May 2007, was reportedly...

December 10, 2007 | Press Work

Buddhist Monk Shengguan Prevented From Attending Human Rights Conference

Human Rights in China has learned from Master Shengguan, a Buddhist monk and former political activist also known as Xu Zhiqiang, that he was barred on December 9, from traveling to attend a “Human Rights Day” conference in Guizhou. Four state security personnel prevented Master Shengguan from...

December 10, 2007 | Press Work

Lü Gengsong’s Case Transferred to Procuratorate

Human Rights in China has learned that Lü Gengsong’s case has been transferred to the Hangzhou City Procuratorate for examination and decision on initiating a prosecution. Lü Gengsong’s wife, Wang Xue’e, went to the Xihu District police station in Hangzhou on November 29, 2007, to check on the...

November 29, 2007 | Press Work

Case Update: Shaanxi Dissident Zhao Changqing Released from Prison Following Completion of Sentence

Shaanxi Dissident Zhao Changqing, who was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment and three years’ additional deprivation of political rights in August 2003, was released on November 27, 2007 upon completing his sentence. Zhao was convicted of “incitement to subvert state power” in relation to an...

November 28, 2007 | Press Work

Guo Feixiong’s Wife Issues Statement on the Decision Not to Appeal

Human Rights in China is issuing a statement made by Zhang Qing, wife of human rights defender and legal advisor Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong), at her request. The statement discusses Guo’s reaction to his conviction and sentence and his subsequent decision not to appeal. It describes...

November 27, 2007 | Press Work

Joint Open Letter to French President Nicolas Sarkozy

On November 22, 2007, Human Rights in China (HRIC), the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), and the French League of Human Rights (LDH), issued an open letter to French President Nicolas Sarkozy in advance of his visit to China. Download English version [PDF]Download French PDF...

November 22, 2007 | Press Work

Rights Defender Guo Feixiong Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison

November 14, 2007 (Hong Kong): Human Rights in China has learned that human rights defender and legal advisor Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) was convicted in Guangzhou at 8:30 am today of "illegal business activity" and sentenced to 5 years' imprisonment and fined 40,000 yuan. Human...

November 13, 2007 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Condemns Attack on Hu Jia

Human Rights in China condemns the November 9 attack on human rights activist Hu Jia (胡佳), reportedly involving state security officers from the Beijing Municipal Security Bureau. Hu Jia told Radio Free Asia that he was severely beaten and sustained injuries to his face and arms. According to Hu,...

November 12, 2007 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner Gong Haoming Detained Under Suspicion of Leaking State Secrets

Human Rights in China has learned from sources in China that Shanghai petitioner Gong Haoming was detained by the Huangpu Sub-bureau of Shanghai Public Security Bureau on November 8, reportedly on suspicion of leaking state secrets. Some time after 10p.m. on November 8, people claiming to be...

November 12, 2007 | Press Work

Detained Petitioners Finally Released After Close of Party Congress, Special Olympics

Human Rights in China has learned that housing rights petitioners Shen Yongmei and Zhou Minwen have finally been sent home after being illegally detained with the complicity of local police. In an apparent move to suppress petitioning activities, Shen and Zhou, along with thousands of other...

November 8, 2007 | Press Work

Chen Guangcheng's Wife Prevented from Seeing Dentist Again

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that Yuan Weijing, the wife of blind self-taught lawyer Chen Guangcheng, remains under close surveillance from local authorities. On October 29, Yuan was again prevented from leaving town to see a dentist. At 9am on October 29, Yuan...

October 29, 2007 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng Abused in Prison Again

Human Rights in China has learned that Shanghai petitioner and rights defender Mao Hengfeng was subject to another round of abuse at the Shanghai Women’s Prison and at a hospital she was taken to earlier this month. Authorities prevented her husband, Wu Xuwei, from visiting her in prison until...

October 29, 2007 | Press Work

Police Ordered Zheng Enchong Not to Leave Home as Tycoon Zhou's Case Opens

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that police ordered Shanghai rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong not to leave home tomorrow when Shanghai tycoon Zhou Zhengyi’s case opens on October 23, 2007. Domestic sources tell HRIC that the case of Shanghai tycoon, Zhou Zhengyi,...

October 22, 2007 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong Unable to Pay Last Respects to Dying Mother

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that Shanghai rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong was not able to pay his last respects to his mother as her conditions deteriorated in the hospital because the police had disconnected his phone line. Zheng’s mother was hospitalized on...

October 12, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns Attack on Hua Huiqi in Lead Up to 17th Party Congress

Human Rights in China (HRIC) condemns the October 11 attack on religious and housing rights activist Hua Huiqi (华惠棋), reportedly involving police and private security guards. HRIC calls for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into the incident, and urges that those responsible...

October 12, 2007 | Press Work

Chinese Government Must Listen to Voices of the People

On October 8, 2007, a group of lawyers, intellectuals, rights defense activists, and others released an open letter to the State Council, Supreme People’s Procuratorate, Ministry of Public Security, and Ministry of State Security, protesting the violent attack on and abduction of Beijing lawyer Li...

October 9, 2007 | Press Work

Rule of Law Threatened by Extra-Legal Attacks Against Lawyer

Human Rights in China (HRIC) condemns the violent attacks against Beijing-based rights defense lawyer, Li Heping, the weekend before National Day celebrations in China. Li’s public statement describes his abduction, beating and torture with electric rods by a group of unidentified men on September...

October 1, 2007 | Press Work

He Depu Threatened with Deprivation of Family Visits Over Disclosure of Prison Conditions

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that prison authorities have threatened to deprive dissident He Depu of family visits after his wife, Jia Jianying, revealed that He had been denied outdoor exercise for nearly half a year. Sources in China told HRIC that after Jia Jianying visited He Depu...

September 27, 2007 | Press Work

Anti-Corruption People's Congress Candidate Abducted and Harassed

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that an outspoken delegate to a local People’s Congress in Xi'an has been subjected to serious abuse and harassment, including being abducted by local officials, threatened, and beaten. Sources in China told HRIC that Zhang Zongai, a former lecturer at Xi'...

September 21, 2007 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng Protests Abusive Confinement

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai rights defender Mao Hengfeng continues to protest her detention at the Shanghai Women's Prison. After being subjected to 70 days of solitary confinement in prison despite Chinese regulations stipulating the maximum of 15 days, Mao has refused...

September 19, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Says Release of Journalist Zhao Yan is Three Years Too Late

Concerning the release of New York Times journalist Zhao Yan on the completion of his three-year prison sentence, Human Rights in China (HRIC) regrets that he was not released three years earlier. Zhao Yan should have been released in September 2005, after the United Nations Working Group on...

September 16, 2007 | Press Work

Wife Appeals for Guo Feixiong’s Release

On the one-year anniversary of the detention of rights defender Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong), Human Rights in China (HRIC) has been sent an essay by his wife, Zhang Qing, entitled “In Commemoration of the First Anniversary of My Husband Guo Feixiong’s Detention: Urging for His...

September 14, 2007 | Press Work

Elderly Activist Denied Medical Parole

Beijing-based religious activist Hua Huiqi told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that his imprisoned 77-year-old mother, Shuang Shuying, has been denied medical parole. Shuang suffers from high blood pressure and diabetes. Detained in February this year, Shuang has served nearly eight months of her...

September 13, 2007 | Press Work

Villagers Beaten, Seedlings Destroyed in Liaoning Land Grab

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of serious harassment, threats and brutal assaults over the past month against villagers in Liaoning Province who are protesting attempts by local officials to forcibly seize farmland for industrial development. Sources in China told HRIC that township and...

September 4, 2007 | Press Work

Officials Attempt to Interfere in Care of Gravely Ill Child of Protesters

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received reports that officials have been trying to interfere in the medical treatment of a gravely ill six-year old girl whose parents have publicly accused their local government of causing her health problems by administering a defective vaccine. HRIC urges the...

August 29, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Protests Detention of Writer Lü Gengsong

Human Rights in China (HRIC) protests the detention of Hangzhou-based writer Lü Gengsong, and supports calls for his release. Lü was reportedly taken into custody on August 24 on charges of "incitement to subvert state power" and "illegally possessing state secrets." Lü’s detention has raised...

August 27, 2007 | Press Work

Homeless Petitioner Brings Unlawful Eviction to German Chancellor’s Attention

Shanghai resident Chen Enjuan has asked Human Rights in China (HRIC) to transmit an open letter to German Chancellor Angela Merkel appealing for assistance after the seizure of Chen’s home by Shanghai Krupp Stainless Co. Ltd., a Sino-German joint venture. Chancellor Merkel will visit China this...

August 24, 2007 | Press Work

Call for Information on Uyghur Writer’s Safety

Human Rights in China (HRIC) calls on the Chinese government to provide confirmation of the safety and present condition of imprisoned Uyghur writer Nurmuhemmet Yasin. HRIC has received unconfirmed reports that Yasin has been tortured to death in prison, and attempts by exiled Uyghur groups to...

August 24, 2007 | Press Work

Persecution of Zheng Enchong Must Stop: HRIC

The recent denial of an application by rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong and his wife Jiang Meili for passports and travel permits to visit Hong Kong is a continuation of the harassment that Zheng and his family have experienced since Zheng's release from prison in 2006. "Zheng Enchong is no...

August 22, 2007 | Press Work

Activist's Mother "Held Hostage" for Information

Chinese Christian activist Hua Huiqi told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that his 78-year-old mother is being held a virtual hostage in an effort to pressure him into becoming a police informant. Hua says that when he refused to provide information, police threatened that he would never see his...

August 17, 2007 | Press Work

Time for Beijing to show its commitment to an open, People's Olympics

The detention of a Tibetan activist raises serious concerns about China's promise of a free and open Olympics, Human Rights in China (HRIC) said today. If you have a different opinion, you are welcome to voice it. — Wang Wei, executive vice president of BOCOG, in 2001 The executive director of...

August 8, 2007 | Press Work

Du Yangming Deprived of Family Visits After Refusing Prison Uniform

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Shanghai petitioner Du Yangming has been denied family visitation rights for refusing to admit guilt and wear a prison uniform. Du Yangming was arrested prior to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Shanghai in June 2006, and on...

August 7, 2007 | Press Work

Further Investigation Delays Guo Feixiong Verdict

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that delivery of the verdict in the trial of Guangdong-based rights defender Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) has been delayed for further investigation. Guo went to trial at Guangzhou's Tianhe District Court on July 9, 2007, on charges of "running...

July 26, 2007 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong Battered by Police while Seeking to Attend Zhou Zhengyi’s Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong and a group of displaced residents of Shanghai’s Dongbakuai neighborhood were prevented from applying for permission to attend the upcoming trial of Shanghai property tycoon Zhou Zhengyi (known in Hong Kong...

July 24, 2007 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong and 100 Displaced Residents Demand Public Trial for Zhou Zhengyi

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that more than 100 displaced Shanghai residents, along with rights defense lawyer Zheng Enchong, have signed a petition demanding a public trial for Shanghai property tycoon Zhou Zhengyi (known in Hong Kong as Chau Ching-ngai), and for an opportunity for...

July 17, 2007 | Press Work

Petitioner Chen Xiaoming Dies under Belated Medical Parole

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Chen Xiaoming died on July 1, shortly after being released on medical parole. Numerous earlier requests by Chen’s family for medical parole had been refused. As previously reported by HRIC, Chen was one of more than a dozen...

July 12, 2007 | Press Work

Anhui Business Owner Harassed for Defending Property Rights

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a report from a small manufacturer, Su Wenju, alleging that a government-run real estate development project led to the demolition of the factory she was leasing in Jixi County, Anhui Province, interfering in her private property rights and resulting in a...

July 5, 2007 | Press Work

Elderly Activist Ill in Prison, Denied Family Visits

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shuang Shuying, the elderly mother of house church activist Hua Huiqi, has been denied family visits in prison despite serious health problems. Hua Huiqi was sentenced to six months in prison on June 4, 2007, and has also been denied family contact....

June 22, 2007 | Press Work

New HRIC Report Details State Secrets System

China's states secrets system is dangerous to the health of people not only in China but also worldwide, and undermines healthy governance and rule of law. By sweeping a broad range of information under the umbrella of "state secrets," the system withholds the very information that civil society...

June 12, 2007 | Press Work

Guo Feixiong Appeals to UN Special Rapporteur on Torture

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a letter from Zhang Qing, the wife of Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) detailing Guo's torture in detention and asking HRIC to forward the letter to Manfred Nowak, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture. In her letter, Zhang calls on the Special...

June 5, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Supports Campaign to Free Golden Pen of Freedom Recipient Shi Tao

Human Rights in China (HRIC) congratulates imprisoned Chinese journalist Shi Tao and his family on his receiving the 2007 Golden Pen of Freedom on June 4 at the opening ceremony of the World Newspaper Congress (WNC) and World Editors Forum (WEF). These annual meetings of the international press,...

June 5, 2007 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Roundtable Calls for Official Accountability

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a full transcript of a roundtable held by Ding Zilin and more than 20 other members of the Tiananmen Mothers to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the violent crackdown on unarmed protesters in and around Beijing's Tiananmen Square on June 4, 1989. During...

May 31, 2007 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Rights Defender Guo Feixiong’s Trial Date Set

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that rights defender Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) will go on trial on June 15 in Guangzhou's Tianhe District Court. Since being taken into formal detention, he has told his lawyer that he has been subjected to severe...

May 21, 2007 | Press Work

Rights Defender Guo Feixiong Maintains Innocence, Is Formally Indicted

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that despite the serious pressure that rights defender Guo Feixiong's family has received, Guo has refused to admit guilt with respect to charges of "illegal business activity." Today, the last day the indictment could be issued within...

May 15, 2007 | Press Work

International Award for Petitioners Intercepted

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the certificates for an international housing award presented to several Chinese activists have been intercepted en route to several recipients. In December 2006, the Geneva-based Centre on Housing Rights and Evictions (COHRE) presented its 2006 Housing...

April 27, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC/MRG Joint Press Release: China's Development Strategy Fails to Benefit Critical Ethnic Minorities and Masks Repression

China's massive economic development strategy, touted to benefit rural ethnic groups in its western regions, in practice excludes, marginalizes, and masks the increased repression of ethnic minority groups such as Mongols, Tibetans, and Uyghurs, according to a new report by Minority Rights Group...

April 25, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: HRIC Condemns Rights Violations and Harsh Sentence in Ablikim Abdureyim’s Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) condemns the harsh sentencing of Ablikim Abdureyim, the son of prominent Uyghur human rights defender Rebiya Kadeer. Charged with "instigating and engaging in secessionist activities," he was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment and three years' deprivation of...

April 19, 2007 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng held in abusive conditions, appeal denied

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng was denied her appeal for the two-and-a-half year sentence for "intentionally destroying property," following a ten-minute session at which only her judgment was read. Neither Mao nor her lawyer were permitted to...

April 16, 2007 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioners Detained following Protests

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that over 200 petitioners in Shanghai were detained for one day after protesting the content of an official article reporting the success of the petitioning system. Several petitioners remain in detention following further protests of their treatment. At...

April 12, 2007 | Press Work

Guo Feixiong Transferred Again Pending Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that rights defender Guo Feixiong, in custody for nearly 200 days, has been transferred back to Guangzhou after being sent to Shenyang City, Liaoning Province, in January 2007. Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong), who provided legal advice in a number...

April 2, 2007 | Press Work

Sun Xiaodi Harassed, Faces Financial Hardship

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that rights activist Sun Xiaodi has gone to Beijing for treatment of a life-threatening tumor, while he and his family continue to be seriously harassed and face financial hardship. Sun Xiaodi has spent more than a decade petitioning the central authorities...

March 27, 2007 | Press Work

Yao Fuxin's Wife Appeals to National People's Congress, Supreme People's Court

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Guo Sujing, the wife of imprisoned labor activist Yao Fuxin, has appealed to the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Supreme People's Court to reexamine her request for Yao's medical parole. Another petition signed by more than 900 workers has also...

March 7, 2007 | Press Work

Fu Xiancai Appeals to National People's Congress

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai has appealed to the National People's Congress (NPC) to intervene in his assault case. The Fifth Session of the Tenth NPC opened on March 5, while the Fifth Session of the Tenth National Committee of the Chinese People'...

March 5, 2007 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Call for End to Censorship over June 4th Crackdown

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open letter from Ding Zilin and other members of the Tiananmen Mothers calling on the Chinese National People's Congress (NPC) and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) to remove the June 4th incident from the "off limits zone" of...

February 27, 2007 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Petitioner Xu Zhengqing Beaten in Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Xu Zhengqing has been beaten in prison and subjected to generally abusive conditions. Sentenced in October 2005 to three years in prison on charges of "disrupting public order," Xu was initially held in Shanghai's Putuo District...

February 20, 2007 | Press Work

Trial Delay in Yan Zhengxue's Subversion Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the trial of rights defenderYan Zhengxue on subversion charges has been delayed indefinitely. Yan Zhengxue, a Zhejiang-based artist, was originally scheduled for trial on February 14 on charges of "subverting state power." However, on February 12, Yan'...

February 12, 2007 | Press Work

Petitioners Expose Abusive Conditions in Shandong "Education" Facility

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that officials in Yantai City, Shandong Province have been carrying out a harsh crackdown against petitioners. Former detainees of a local petitioner education center have told HRIC of verbal, physical and mental abuse and coercive psychiatric treatment,...

February 1, 2007 | Press Work

Guo Feixiong’s Case Delayed, Transferred

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Guangzhou Procuratorate has sent back the case against rights defender Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) for a new round of investigation due to insufficient evidence. In addition, Guo has been transferred to a detention...

January 22, 2007 | Press Work

Guo Feixiong Tortured, Sister and Brother Harassed

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the brother and sister of rights defender Guo Feixiong have been harassed by local officials, while Guo himself has been subjected to torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment in detention. According to news reports and HRIC's own sources in...

January 16, 2007 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng Sentenced to 2-1/2 Years for Breaking Lamps

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng has been sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison on a charge of "intentionally destroying property."Mao, who has petitioned the authorities since 1988 on family planning and housing issues, has been detained many...

January 16, 2007 | Press Work

Case Update: Case Moves Ahead Against Rights Defender Guo Feixiong

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the case of "illegal business activity" against rights defender Guo Feixiong (also known as Yang Maodong) has been referred to the Guangzhou Procuratorate after a second investigation. Guo Feixiong, who provided legal advice in a number of controversial...

January 8, 2007 | Press Work

Environmental Activist Sun Xiaodi Faces Stepped-up Harassment after International Award

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Gansu-based activist Sun Xiaodi is facing serious harassment by local officials and unknown persons, and has been unable to obtain official permission to seek medical treatment in Beijing for a potentially life-threatening health condition.Sun Xiaodi...

January 2, 2007 | Press Work

HRIC Statement on Gao Zhisheng's Sentence

The suspended sentence handed down today against rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng comes at the end of more than four months of detention, periods of effective house arrest since early this year, and physical abuse and harassment of Gao and his family. It is also the culmination of a deeply...

December 22, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioners Imprisoned

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that three Shanghai petitioners have been sentenced to prison terms after being detained around the time of the meeting of the intergovernmental Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in June. The three petitioners, Du Yangming, Wang Shuizhen and Tian...

December 18, 2006 | Press Work

Fu Xiancai Petitions Procurator-general over Official Inaction on Assault Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai has sent an open letter to China's Procurator-general, Jia Chunwang, requesting his intervention into Fu's assault case. An outspoken advocate for villagers of Zigui County, Hubei Province, displaced for the Three...

December 18, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Concerned Over Gao Zhisheng's Guilty Plea

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is extremely concerned about reports from China that rights defense lawyer Gao Zhisheng has pleaded guilty to charges of "inciting subversion." Gao went to trial on December 12 at the Beijing No. 1 Intermediate Court. In light of the lack of transparency throughout the...

December 13, 2006 | Press Work

Guangxi Pollution Protesters Go on Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that five people accused of organizing a protest against the construction of a manganese electrolyte plant in Guangxi Province will go on trial on December 5. Sources in China told HRIC that Huang Jin, the chairman of Daxin County’s Leishe District, was...

December 4, 2006 | Press Work

Sun Xiaodi Receives International Nuclear Activism Award

Gansu-based activist Sun Xiaodi, who has spent more than a decade petitioning the central authorities over radioactive contamination from the No. 792 Uranium Mine in the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Gansu Province, was presented yesterday with the Nuclear-Free Future Award, described as...

December 2, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Protests Denial of Appeal for Journalist Zhao Yan

Human Rights in China (HRIC) deplores the Beijing Higher Court's denial today of an appeal for New York Times journalist Zhao Yan. According to his lawyer Guan Anping, at the five-minute hearing, Zhao Yan was not allowed to testify, present evidence or call witnesses. Zhao was detained in...

December 1, 2006 | Press Work

Witnesses Prevented from Appearing at Chen Guangcheng Retrial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that serious interference by local authorities has resulted in several witnesses failing to appear at the retrial of blind activist Chen Guangcheng. Chen Guangcheng, 35 and blind since childhood, is a self-taught lawyer and activist in Shandong Province who...

November 27, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Welcomes Human Rights Exhibition in China

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the announcement of a Human Rights Exhibition to be held in Beijing. This is a step forward for the Chinese government, signaling its acceptance of the importance and relevance of human rights for China. While Dong Yunhu, vice chairman of the China Society for...

November 17, 2006 | Press Work

Guizhou Mine Operator Forced to Cede Control to Local Officials

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the case of a mine operator forced to surrender control of his mine after he refused to issue shares to local Party and Mines Bureau officials. The case illustrates the kind of rampant official corruption and abuse of power that contributes to China's...

November 15, 2006 | Press Work

Three Shanghai Petitioners go to Trial, Others Abused in Detention

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that three petitioners, Du Yangming, Wang Shuizhen and Tian Baocheng, are scheduled to appear in Shanghai’s Zhabei District People’s Court on November 8 and 9 on charges of “causing a disturbance.” All three were detained and charged in connection with their...

November 7, 2006 | Press Work

Internet Essayist Li Jianping Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shandong-based dissident Li Jianping has been sentenced to two years in prison, more than half a year after he went to trial and more than 500 days after he was first detained. On October 25, the Zibo City Intermediate People's Court found Li guilty of...

October 25, 2006 | Press Work

Coercive Psychiatric Treatment for Supporter of Activist Monk

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a female supporter of activist Buddhist monk Master Shengguan has been detained and forcibly admitted to a hospital for psychiatric treatment. The woman, surnamed Zou, reportedly assisted Master Shengguan in reforming the administrative system of the...

October 25, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Update: House Arrest of Zheng Enchong, Mass Detention of Petitioners for Party Congress

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong, released from prison in June, was prevented from attending a church service as part of ongoing restrictions on his personal liberty. In addition, HRIC has learned of a mass roundup of petitioners in Shanghai around the...

October 16, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: HRIC Supports Calls for Action on Tibet Shooting

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is appalled at the shooting of Tibetans crossing the Nangpa Pass from Tibet to Nepal on September 30, 2006. At least one individual, a young nun, was killed, and several others injured. People's Republic of China (PRC) border police are believed to be responsible. The...

October 12, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Welcomes New Co-Chairs Andrew Nathan and Christine Loh

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is pleased to announce the election of Professor Andrew Nathan and Ms. Christine Loh as the organization’s new co-chairs. Andrew J. Nathan is Class of 1919 Professor of Political Science at Columbia University and a former chairman of its Political Science Department...

October 11, 2006 | Press Work

Wife of Rights Activist Chen Guangcheng Forcibly Brought in for Questioning on the Way to Her Parents’ Home for Mid-Autumn Festival

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Yuan Weijing, the wife of blind activist Chen Guangcheng, was stopped and detained by police in Linyi City, Shandong Province, on October 3 where she and her daughter were in transit on the way to her parents’ home for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Sources...

October 3, 2006 | Press Work

Laid-off Sichuan Workers Beaten and Detained Following Petition Attempt

Amidst press reports of a crackdown against petitioners in Beijing in the run-up to China’s October 1 National Day celebrations, Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the beating and detention of petitioning unemployed workers in Suining City, Sichuan Province. Sources in China told HRIC that...

September 21, 2006 | Press Work

German Intervention Puts Fu Xiancai in Top Hospital – But Villagers Harassed over Investigation

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that intervention by the German media has resulted in injured Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai gaining admittance to one of China’s best rehabilitation hospitals. Meanwhile, local officials are harassing Fu’s friends and family members to prevent further...

September 18, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioners Appeal to Central Discipline Inspection Committee over Renewed Crackdown

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of a renewed crackdown on petitioners in Shanghai following the arrival of the Central Discipline Inspection Committee for an inspection visit in mid-August. Sources in China told HRIC that a group of petitioners went to the hostel in Shaanxi South Road...

September 15, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Statement: China’s Foreign News Rules Spell Trouble for an Open Olympics

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is alarmed by the Measures for Administering the Release of News and Information in China by Foreign News Agencies (Measures) issued on September 10, 2006 by China’s official Xinhua News Agency. These far-reaching new measures, effective immediately, replace previous...

September 11, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Welcomes UN Recommendations on Women's Rights in China

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the comprehensive and constructive recommendations issued by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (the Committee) following its review of the People's Republic of China (PRC) government's combined fifth and sixth periodic reports...

September 1, 2006 | Press Work

Ching Cheong Sentence “Deeply Troubling”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) is deeply troubled by the sentence imposed on Ching Cheong today. “In light of China’s clear record of politicized prosecutions, and lack of judicial independence and transparency, HRIC has serious concerns about the fairness of the whole proceedings," said Sharon Hom...

August 31, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Residents File Formal Complaint Suggesting Official Collusion in Zhou Zhengyi Fraud

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a group of Shanghai residents displaced in a redevelopment project controlled by Shanghai tycoon Zhou Zhengyi filed a formal complaint with the Supreme People’s Procuratorate on August 25, alleging that well-connected local officials are implicated in...

August 29, 2006 | Press Work

Top Buddhist Officials Join in Persecution of Activist Monk

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Master Shengguan, a Buddhist monk and former political activist also known as Xu Zhiqiang, has been ordered to leave Jiangxi Province after local authorities in Yichun City expelled him from the temple he administered on August 19. In addition, police...

August 23, 2006 | Press Work

Buddhist Temple Target of Corrupt Official Persecution

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that local authorities in Yichun, Jiangxi Province have mounted a campaign of intimidation and persecution against a Buddhist temple administered by a 1989 democracy activist. The harassment follows allegations of corruption made by some of the temple...

August 21, 2006 | Press Work

Internet Essayist Li Jianping Languishes in Prison as Verdict is Delayed

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that no verdict has yet been announced in the trial of Shandong-based dissident Li Jianping nearly four months after his trial. Li was tried on April 12 on charges of “incitement to subvert state power” on the basis of articles he wrote that were posted on...

August 7, 2006 | Press Work

Officials Conclude Self-Inflicted Injury in Fu Xiancai Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the official Chinese investigation into the assault of Three Gorges petitioner Fu Xiancai has concluded that his injuries were self-inflicted. Fu was paralyzed from the shoulders down after a blow to the back of his neck so severe that three of his...

July 26, 2006 | Press Work

Fu Xiancai’s Family and Friends Harassed by Police “Minders”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that authorities in Zigui County, Hubei Province are keeping friends and family members of injured Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai under close surveillance that is tantamount to harassment. Sources in China told HRIC that Fu Xiancai has recovered movement...

July 20, 2006 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong Detained Again

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong and his wife, Jiang Meili, were taken from their home separately by police on the evening of July 12. Sources say that though Jiang Meili has since returned home, Zheng remains in custody. Zheng Enchong was released from...

July 12, 2006 | Press Work

Imprisoned Petitioner Xu Zhengqing Denied Family Visits

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that petitioner Xu Zhengqing, sentenced to three years in prison in October 2005, has been denied his right to family visits because he refuses to acknowledge wrongdoing or wear a prison uniform. Xu Zhengqing is a longtime petitioner who has been subjected...

July 5, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Lawyer Zheng Enchong Under De Facto House Arrest

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that lawyer Zheng Enchong, released earlier this month after serving a three-year prison term for “revealing state secrets,” has been put under de facto house arrest and subjected to other restrictions on his personal freedom. Sources in China told HRIC...

June 28, 2006 | Press Work

Fu Xiancai Gradually Recovering, But Fairness of Attack Investigation in Doubt

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Three Gorges resettlement petitioner Fu Xiancai is gradually recovering his health and limited movement since his surgery to mend vertebrae crushed in an assault on June 8. However, there are serious doubts regarding the fairness of the official...

June 28, 2006 | Press Work

Petitioner Liu Xinjuan Forcibly Admitted to Mental Hospital for the Fifth Time

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Liu Xinjuan has been forcibly admitted to a mental hospital for the fifth time in three years following her latest attempt to petition the government in Beijing over forced evictions for urban redevelopment. Sources in China told...

June 22, 2006 | Press Work

Hangzhou Environmentalist Tan Kai’s Trial Granted Continuance

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the trial of environmental activist Tan Kai has been granted a continuance. Tan Kai, a leader of the environmental group "Green Watch," went to trial at Hangzhou's Xihu District Court on May 15 on charges of illegally obtaining state secrets. The...

June 22, 2006 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Urged to Provide Financial Assistance to Fu Xiancai

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the news that the German government has provided funding for necessary surgery for Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai. Fu underwent surgery on June 18 for injuries he received in an attack on June 8 that left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. However,...

June 19, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Calls for International Action as Fu Xiancai Denied Vital Surgery

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Three Gorges activist Fu Xiancai, who is currently paralyzed from the shoulders down, has not received urgent and essential surgery, apparently due to lack of funds. This delay comes despite promises from Chinese officials that Fu would receive all...

June 16, 2006 | Press Work

Open Letter to the Administrator of the German district of Ludwigsburg

Landrat Dr. Rainer Haas Stadverwaltung Ludwigsburg Hindenburgstrasse 40 71638 Ludwigsburg, Germany Fax: (49) 7141-144-396 Email: mail@landkreis-ludwigsburg.de June 15, 2006 Dear Dr. Hass, As an international Chinese NGO, Human Rights in China writes to respectfully request your urgent attention...

June 16, 2006 | Press Work

Open letter to Luo Qingquan, Governor of Hubei Province

Mr. Luo Qingquan Governor, Hubei Provincial People's Government Wuhanshi Hubei Sheng, P.R.C. Sent via the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United States of America Fax: 1-202-328-2582 June 15, 2006 Dear Governor Luo, As an international Chinese NGO, Human Rights in China writes...

June 16, 2006 | Press Work

Open letter to Liu Xianzhe, Director of the Yichang No. 1 Hospital

Liu Xianzhe Director, Yichang No. 1 Hospital 4 Hudi Street, Yichang City, Hubei Province 44300 P.R.C. Fax: (86) 717-622-1636 Email: web@ycyy.com.cn June 15, 2006 Dear Director Liu, As an international Chinese NGO, Human Rights in China writes to respectfully request your urgent attention to the...

June 16, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Calls for Zhao Yan's Immediate Release

With the trial of journalist and New York Times researcher Zhao Yan scheduled to begin on June 16, Human Rights in China (HRIC) calls for his immediate release. Zhao has been held in arbitrary detention without trial since September 17, 2004, in blatant violation of Chinese and international law....

June 15, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Welcomes German Intervention in Case of Three Gorges Activist

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes intervention into the case of Three Gorges resettlement activist Fu Xiancai by the German government and media. Fu Xiancai was attacked by unknown persons on June 8 after local police questioned him over an interview with Fu broadcasted by German public...

June 13, 2006 | Press Work

Three Gorges Activist Faces Paralysis after Brutal Assault

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Three Gorges resettlement activist Fu Xiancai is being treated for serious injuries following an assault by an unknown assailant. Sources in China told HRIC that on the morning of June 8, Wang Xiankui, leader of the security squad of the Public...

June 12, 2006 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong Released Amidst Crackdown on Petitioners

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that jailed lawyer Zheng Enchong was allowed to return directly home following his release on completion of his sentence. However, a number of other Shanghai residents were rounded up for detention and surveillance in the lead up to his release and the...

June 5, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Launches Podcast Interviews for June 4th Anniversary

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has launched a podcast series of interviews with participants of the 1989 Tiananmen Square movement. The podcasts, which can be downloaded as audio files from HRIC's Web site, include oral histories of the June 4th Tiananmen Square crackdown never previously made...

June 2, 2006 | Press Work

Special Procedures Imposed on Zheng Enchong's Release from Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities have imposed special procedures that will delay the return home of jailed lawyer Zheng Enchong. Zheng is scheduled for release on June 5 after serving a three-year prison term on charges of illegally providing state secrets...

June 1, 2006 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Renew Calls for Justice for June 4th Crackdown

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open statement from the Tiananmen Mothers on the occasion of the 17th anniversary of the official crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Tiananmen Square on June 4th, 1989, setting forth their current position as a rights defenders group, and renewing...

May 28, 2006 | Press Work | June Fourth

Crackdown on activists leading up to June 4th

HRIC has learned Shanghai authorities have initiated a crackdown on activists leading up to the 17th anniversary of the June 4th crackdown. Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng has again been detained and the father of dissident Xu Zhengqing was summoned by the police after posting an open letter to...

May 26, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC: UN Secretary General’s China Visit Needs Real Human Rights Focus

United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan will make his seventh official visit to China this week, during which he will meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and other top officials. The visit closely follows China’s election to the new Human...

May 19, 2006 | Press Work

Break-in at Home of Jailed Lawyer Zheng Enchong

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Shanghai home of imprisoned lawyer Zheng Enchong was broken into by two unidentified men on May 16 while Zheng’s wife, Jiang Meili, was on her way to visit him in prison. Zheng Enchong represented more than 500 cases of residents evicted in urban...

May 18, 2006 | Press Work

Trial Date Set for Hangzhou Environmentalist

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that detained environmental activist Tan Kai will go to trial at Hangzhou’s Xihu District Court on May 15 on charges of “illegally obtaining state secrets.” The Hangzhou Public Security Bureau issued summonses to Tan and five other members of an...

May 11, 2006 | Press Work

China’s Election to the Human Rights Council: Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

In the General Assembly elections for the 47-member Human Rights Council today that replaces the Commission on Human Rights, the People’s Republic of China was voted in with 146 out of a possible 191 votes, coming in eighth in the Asian Region. China’s election presents a unique and important...

May 9, 2006 | Press Work

Concern over Fate of Petitioner Chen Xiaoming, Missing for Three Months

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the whereabouts of Shanghai petitioner Chen Xiaoming remain unknown following his secret detention in February. Sources close to Chen worry that his disappearance is related to his contacts with a U.S. consular official. Sources say...

May 8, 2006 | Press Work

Yahoo! Cited in Decision Sentencing Internet Dissident Wang Xiaoning to 10 Years

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that dissident Wang Xiaoning was sentenced to 10 years in prison on the basis of essays he distributed through the Internet. Wang was sentenced more than two years ago, but his case has only recently come to light. Wang Xiaoning, born in 1951, was detained...

April 27, 2006 | Press Work

Villagers Threatened in Forced Land Expropriation

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received reports that officials have colluded with developers in Jinjiang City, Fujian Province to forcibly repossess prime farm land and a gravesite for the construction of a power station. Sources in China told HRIC that the controversy began this past February,...

April 24, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Press Conference on April 21, 2006

HRIC will convene a press conference at 11 a.m. on April 21, 2006, at the New York office of Human Rights in China. Coming at the end of Chinese President Hu Jintao’s trip to the U.S., HRIC will provide a preliminary assessment of the trip with a focus on the human rights implications. The press...

April 19, 2006 | Press Work

HRIC Launches “Where’s Hu Now?” Web Site

Human Rights in China (HRIC) will mark Chinese President Hu Jintao’s first “official” visit to the U.S. by launching a special “Where’s Hu Now?” Web site on April 18, 2006, 10 a.m. EDT. Hu’s visit comes at a time when China is experiencing serious human rights challenges, including the arbitrary...

April 17, 2006 | Press Work

Open Letter: Submitted to President Bush in advance of meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao

On April 12, 2006, HRIC submitted an open letter and a list of urgent detention cases in China to U.S. President Bush in advance of his meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao. HRIC urges President Bush to raise issues of particular human rights concerns, especially the increasing economic...

April 12, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident Lu Decheng free; others remain in asylum limbo

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the discharge of dissident Lu Decheng from the custody of Thai authorities and his arrival in Canada, where he has been offered political asylum. His release comes after months of pressure from the international community protesting the possibility of his...

April 12, 2006 | Press Work

Urgent Detention Cases Submitted to President Bush

HRIC submitted the following list of urgent detention cases in China with an open letter to U.S. President Bush in advance of his meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao in April 2006. Li Zhi, Internet essayist Li Zhi (b. 1970), a graduate of the Xinan Institute of Finance and an Internet...

April 12, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident Zhao Changqing Back in Solitary Confinement

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that imprisoned dissident Zhao Changqing has again been placed in solitary confinement after refusing to participate in military drills in prison. HRIC previously reported that last December Zhao had been placed in solitary confinement for more than 40 days...

April 11, 2006 | Press Work

Environmental Activist Sun Xiaodi Detained Again

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Sun Xiaodi, detained for eight months last year after he attempted to petition the central government over uranium contamination in Gansu Province, has been detained again after petitioning Beijing on the issue. Sun Xiaodi, formerly an employee of the...

April 7, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident’s Family in Financial Crisis Following Unexplained Detention

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the family of Beijing-based dissident Qi Zhiyong has been targeted financially and its survival threatened after Qin's release from arbitrary detention on March 28. A worker during the protests in Tiananmen Square in 1989, Qi was shot when troops...

April 6, 2006 | Press Work

Mao Hengfeng Abused in Detention; Petitioner Parents Appeal to Xinhua News Agency

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that veteran Shanghai petitioner Mao Hengfeng was subjected to physical and mental abuse while detained for more than a month for her participation in a hunger strike. Mao took part in the nationwide hunger strike in support of lawyer Gao Zhisheng and other...

March 31, 2006 | Press Work

Rural Land Activists Detained after Petitioning over Corruption

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that two rural land rights activists have been detained for more than a month in apparent retaliation for their efforts against local corruption and unlawful land seizures. Liu Hua was formerly village head of Zhangliangbao Village, Honglingbao Township, in...

March 27, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident Ren Ziyuan Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shandong-based dissident Ren Ziyuan was sentenced to 10 years in prison for “subversion of state power” on the basis of an article posted on the Internet. The verdict and sentence were delivered on the morning of March 17, Beijing time. Background of...

March 16, 2006 | Press Work

Tiananmen Veteran Li Jianping Indicted for Internet Articles

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shandong-based dissident Li Jianping has been formally indicted on charges of “incitement to subvert state power.” Li Jianping, 40, participated in the 1989 Democracy Movement as a founder of the Independent Federation of Shanghai Universities. In...

March 13, 2006 | Press Work

Imprisoned Labor Leader’s Wife and Daughter Petition Beijing

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the wife of and daughter of imprisoned labor activist Yao Fuxin have gone to Beijing to petition delegates of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) on during their annual sessions. Yao...

March 3, 2006 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Call for Release of Donated Funds

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open letter from the Tiananmen Mothers calling on the Chinese authorities to release humanitarian donations that have been frozen in an account for eight years. The Tiananmen Mothers, a group of 126 family members of those killed or injured during the...

February 27, 2006 | Press Work | June Fourth

Roundup of Shanghai Rights Activists on Eve of NPC Session

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities have been rounding up petitioners and other dissenters in an apparent move to impose order on major urban areas on the eve of the new sessions of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and Chinese People’s Political Consultative...

February 27, 2006 | Press Work

Journalist Li Yuanlong Indicted for Subversion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that journalist Li Yuanlong has been formally indicted on charges of “incitement to subvert state power.” Sources in China told HRIC that Li, formerly a reporter with Bijie Daily in Guizhou Province, was originally detained on September 9, 2005, and was...

February 24, 2006 | Press Work

Hunger Strike Detentions Continue in Shanghai

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of a further string of detentions in Shanghai apparently related to participation in lawyer Gao Zhisheng’s hunger strike against official repression and violence. Gao Zhisheng’s hunger strike, begun earlier this month, has apparently raised increasing alarm...

February 17, 2006 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner Fu Yuxia Detained

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that public security police detained Shanghai petitioner Fu Yuxia on the afternoon of February 15. Sources in China told HRIC that Fu Yuxia was at the home of her brother, Fu Honghui, when a dozen police officers from Shanghai’s Luwan District Public...

February 16, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident Zhao Changqing Abused in Prison

http://www.hrichina.org/en/defenders/zhao-changqingHuman Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that veteran dissident Zhao Changqing has been repeatedly subjected to abusive treatment in prison, including solitary confinement, most recently because he objected to singing the political anthem, "...

February 8, 2006 | Press Work

House Church Leader's Sentence Wrongfully Prolonged

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the health of house church leader Liu Fenggang is deteriorating in prison due to lack of treatment for his heart condition. In addition, it appears that another imprisoned house church leader, Xu Yonghai, has been held well beyond his proper release...

February 3, 2006 | Press Work

Woman and Teenager Forcibly Detained in World’s Fair Clearance

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a woman and her 14-year-old son were forcibly removed from their home and detained for several hours in the course of a large-scale clearance operation for Shanghai’s hosting of the World’s Fair in 2010. Sources in China told HRIC that on the morning...

January 24, 2006 | Press Work

Petitioner Liu Xinjuan Sent to Psychiatric Hospital, Petitioner Xu Zhengqing Loses Appeal on 3-Year Sentence

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Liu Xinjuan has been forcibly admitted to a psychiatric hospital after being detained in a roundup of petitioners while Shanghai’s People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference were in session. Sources in...

January 20, 2006 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Shanghai Rounds Up Petitioners for Party Plenums

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities detained a large number of petitioners in advance of the current sessions of Shanghai’s People’s Congress and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, which began on January 14. Sources in China told HRIC that beginning...

January 17, 2006 | Press Work

Further Crackdown on Petitioner Mao Hengfeng and Others in Beijing and Shanghai

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a number of Shanghai petitioners have been detained in Beijing and Shanghai, with several being beaten and mistreated. According to HRIC sources, on the afternoon of December 28, veteran petitioner Mao Hengfeng and several dozen other petitioners were...

January 3, 2006 | Press Work

Dissident receives sentence of 12 years

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on December 23, political dissident Xu Wanping was convicted of "incitement to subvert state power" and sentenced to 12 years imprisonment and four years deprivation of political rights. According to Xu Wanping's wife, Chen Xianying, Xu Wanping has not...

December 24, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Petitioner Xu Zhengqing Appeal Set for January

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Xu Zhengqing, recently sentenced to three years in prison on charges of “creating a public disturbance,” has been granted an appeal set for January. Sources in China told HRIC that the Shanghai No. 2 Intermediate People’s Court...

December 19, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Imprisoned Lawyer Zheng Enchong Receives Human Rights Award from German Judges

HRIC has learned that Shanghai rights defender Zheng Enchong has been awarded a “Human Rights Award” from the German Judges Association in a reception attended by the German President Horst Koehler. Because Zheng Enchong is currently imprisoned, and his wife Jiang Meili was restricted from leaving...

December 8, 2005 | Press Work

Shanghai Police Create Hostile Climate at Complaint Hearing

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai Public Security Bureau (PSB) police occupied a Huangpu District courtroom, creating a hostile climate at an administrative complaint hearing in which the PSB itself was a defendant. Sources in China told HRIC that a hearing was scheduled at the...

December 7, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Mourns Death of Liu Binyan

HRIC mourns the loss of Mr. Liu Binyan, who passed away on Dec. 5, 2005, and extends its sincere condolences to his family. Mr. Liu joined the Chinese Communist Party in the 1940s. Although he suffered from persecution and was expelled from the CCP many times, he exposed and critiqued social...

December 5, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Urges Action on Torture

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the statement and recommendations for criminal justice reforms issued by the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, Manfred Nowak in Beijing earlier today. This was the first inspection visit to China by a Special Rapporteur on Torture, the result of ten years of...

December 2, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Petition Circulated for Detained Environmental Activists

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open letter circulated by several activists on behalf of detained environmental activist Tan Kai. The Hangzhou Public Security Bureau issued summonses to Tan and five other members of an environmental civil society group “Green Watch” (lüse guancha) on...

December 1, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioners detained in Shanghai and Beijing during Bush Visit

New Release from HRIC Several Shanghai petitioners and rights defenders remain missing after having been monitored and detained during President Bush’s visit to China and the commemoration of former leader Hu Yaobang’s birth. Sources told HRIC that Shanghai police have kept Xu Zhengqing’s father,...

November 21, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Open Letter to President Bush on Behalf of Xu Zhengqing

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open letter requesting that President George W. Bush take advantage of his upcoming visit to China to bring up the case of Xu Zhengqing, who was recently sentenced to three years in prison as a result of his attempt to commemorate deceased former leader...

November 8, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory: Open Letter Received Urging President Bush to Raise Case of Jailed Democracy Activist

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter requesting that President George W. Bush take advantage of his upcoming visit to China to bring up the case of Wang Sen, a democracy and Internet activist reportedly in critical health following his conviction on state security...

October 31, 2005 | Press Work

Environmental Activists Detained in Hangzhou

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Hangzhou Public Security Bureau issued summonses to six members of an environmental civil society group, “Green Watch” (lüse guancha), on October 19. Sources in China say that one of the activists, Tan Kai, has been placed in criminal detention,...

October 25, 2005 | Press Work

Dissident Nears Trial Without Legal Representation

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that political dissident Xu Wanping, who has been in custody for half a year with no access to a lawyer, may soon go to trial on charges of subversion. Xu Wanping, a key political activist based in Chongqing, was detained by Public Security Police who...

October 20, 2005 | Press Work

Three Years in Prison for “Disrupting Public Order”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Xu Zhengqing has been sentenced to three years in prison on a charge of “disrupting public order.” Xu Zhengqing is a long-time petitioner who has been subjected to constant persecution by the authorities as a result of his outspoken...

October 17, 2005 | Press Work

Massive Petitioner Sweep for China’s National Day

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing authorities have rounded up more than 100 petitioners, apparently in preparation for China’s National Day observances on October 1. Among the detainees is the elderly father of Xu Zhengqing, a petitioner currently on trial in Shanghai for...

September 28, 2005 | Press Work

Petition on Behalf of Mainland Activist Stranded in Taiwan

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter on behalf of Yan Peng, a democracy activist who was held in detention for eight months in Taiwan after fleeing there from the mainland in June 2004. Yan is seeking political asylum, but because of procedural delays he has remained...

September 23, 2005 | Press Work

China Blocks Open Discussion at WSIS with Procedural Maneuvering

The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and its member organization, Human Rights in China (HRIC), denounce the decision of the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS), a process that claims to include the broadest possible participation, to block open discussion on supporting...

September 20, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioner Round-up Brings Threat of Psychiatric Incarceration

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities have staged a major round-up of long-term petitioners, detaining at least 100 people since September 14. Sources say some of the detainees have been threatened with forcible psychiatric treatment. Sources in China told HRIC that...

September 19, 2005 | Press Work

Witnesses Dispute Charges against Petitioner Xu Zhengqing in Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that witnesses testifying for the defense in the trial of petitioner Xu Zhengqing on September 13 in Shanghai have refuted evidence produced by the prosecution against Xu on charges of “disturbing public order” under Article 293 of the PRC Criminal Law. Xu...

September 13, 2005 | Press Work

Clinton Urged to Raise Shi Tao Case at China Internet Summit

Human Rights in China (HRIC) and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) today issued an open letter to former president Bill Clinton, urging him to raise the case of jailed journalist Shi Tao and encourage Internet companies, especially Yahoo!, to implement their human rights obligations. President...

September 9, 2005 | Press Work

Open Letter to President Clinton

Dear President Clinton: We, the undersigned organizations, urge you, as the keynote speaker of the 2005 China Internet Summit at West Lake in Hangzhou, China, to call for the release of Shi Tao, a journalist and Internet activist serving a 10-year sentence for divulging state secrets. This Summit...

September 9, 2005 | Press Work

Beijing Petitioned on Behalf of Missing Activist Sun Xiaodi

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that more than a hundred people have signed a petition calling on the Chinese authorities to release Sun Xiaodi, an activist petitioning authorities over nuclear contamination from the Gansu No. 792 Uranium Mine, who disappeared more than 130 days ago. A...

September 7, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Statement on UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Visit to China

Near the conclusion of her visit to China, Louise Arbour, the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights today signed a “Memorandum of Understanding between the PRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UNHCHR Concerning the Agreement to Cooperate on the Formulation and Establishment of a Technical...

August 31, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioner Wang Qiaojuan Sentenced to RTL

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioner Wang Qiaojuan has been sentenced to one year of Reeducation Through Labor (RTL) on a charge of “obstructing the execution of public duty.” Sources in China told HRIC that Wang was one of more than 30 petitioners that were attacked...

August 30, 2005 | Press Work

Dissident Writer Shi Tao Files for Review of Appeal Decision

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an application for a trial supervision review filed on behalf of imprisoned dissident writer Shi Tao by his mother, Gao Qinsheng. Supported by a legal brief written by defense attorney Mo Shaoping, Gao is applying on the grounds of “serious...

August 24, 2005 | Press Work

Activist Disappears after Reporting Nuclear Contamination

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a Gansu uranium mine employee has been missing for 110 days after being detained by public security police following his attempts to petition officials over severe radiation poisoning affecting local residents. Sources in China told HRIC that Sun...

August 19, 2005 | Press Work

Three Gorges Petitioners Impeded, Harassed

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that several activists protesting resettlement terms from the Three Gorges Dam project were prevented from petitioning the central government in Beijing, and that one activist has been seriously harassed since being interviewed by an American journalist in...

August 9, 2005 | Press Work

Retaliatory Detentions of Shanghai Petitioners

Sources in China previously reported to HRIC that on the evening of June 24, more than 30 petitioners had been attacked by dozens of police officers as they prepared to depart for Beijing from Shanghai’s west train station for the purpose of protesting against China’s revised regulations on...

July 19, 2005 | Press Work

Local Officials Employ Coercive Tactics in Shaanxi Oilfield Controversy

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that local officials in Shaanxi Province have been arranging coercive private meetings with prominent individuals to weaken public support for shareholders in the drawn-out Shaanxi oilfields controversy. Shareholders in a collection of privately operated...

July 8, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Press Statement

Human Rights in China (HRIC) would like to respond to false allegations attributed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in an Associated Press (AP) story published on July 4. The AP story, entitled “U.S. Protests American Detained in China,” quoted a statement by...

July 5, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioners Protest Attempted Prosecution

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai petitioners have issued an open letter on behalf of fellow petitioner Xu Zhengqing, who may soon be formally indicted on charges of "disturbing social order." Sources in China told HRIC that the Public Security Bureau (PSB) on April 22 filed a...

June 28, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioners Assaulted as Police Discourage Beijing Influx

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that more than 30 petitioners from Shanghai were injured in clashes with police as they attempted to board a train for Beijing. Sources in China told HRIC that on the night of June 24, petitioners Wang Qiaojuan, Wang Minqing, Yang Weiming and more than 30...

June 27, 2005 | Press Work

Dissident Writer Zhang Lin to be Tried Next Week

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the words of a punk rock song are part of the evidence to be raised against dissident writer Zhang Lin when he is tried next week on charges of incitement to subvert state power. Sources in China told HRIC that Zhang Lin will be brought before the...

June 15, 2005 | Press Work

June 4th Families Charge Double Standard Re Nanking Massacre

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter written by Ding Zilin and more than 100 other family members of those killed and injured in June 1989, calling for the Chinese government to recognize the same need for accountability and redress regarding June 4th as it is...

May 27, 2005 | Press Work

Appeal Documents Expose Injustice in Shi Tao Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received copies of appeal documents written by dissident writer Shi Tao, who on April 30 was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of “illegally revealing state secrets abroad.” The documents, including an appeal petition dated May 4 and a defense statement...

May 19, 2005 | Press Work

Official Pique Deprives 250 Families of Livelihood

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that 250 stall-holders in Hangzhou’s Cuiyuan night market face the loss of their livelihoods after officials issued a notice to close the market down. Cuiyuan Market has become a notable tourist attraction since it was opened in the...

May 18, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Urges the PRC Government to Act on UN Committee’s Recommendations

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the comprehensive and concrete recommendations issued by the United Nations Committee on Economic, Cultural and Social Rights following its review of the People's Republic of China's (PRC) government progress report. HRIC urges the PRC government to implement...

May 17, 2005 | Press Work

Peasant Advocates Hospitalized in Clash with Officials

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Liu Zhengyou and four other representatives of landless peasants from Zigong City, Sichuan Province, were assaulted and detained while appealing to the city’s new mayor for redress on April 20. Sources in China told HRIC that more than 2,000 residents...

May 3, 2005 | Press Work

Roundup of Dissidents in Anti-Japanese Protests

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a number of Chinese political dissidents have been detained for their participation in anti-Japanese protests. Sources in China told HRIC that Xu Wanping, a key political activist based in Chongqing, was detained by Public Security Police who came to...

May 2, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioners Detained in Advance of New Law

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received reports of a nationwide crackdown against petitioners as the date approaches for implementation of China’s new petitions regulations, which coincides with the long holiday weekend marking Labor Day on May 1. Sources in China told HRIC that hundreds of...

April 28, 2005 | Press Work

Dissidents Thwarted in Opening Human Rights Consultancy

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that Beijing police forced the closure of a citizens’ rights center established by political activists Liu Jingsheng and Li Weiping. Sources told HRIC that Beijing police officers acting on “instructions from higher levels” ordered the...

April 21, 2005 | Press Work

China: Religious Repression of Uighur Muslims Architecture of Xinjiang Suppression Detailed

For Immediate Release For more information, please contact: In London, Nicolas Becquelin (English, French, Mandarin): +852 9805 9120 In New York: Sharon Hom (English, Mandarin): +212 239 4495 (New York, April 12, 2005) -- The Chinese government is directing a crushing campaign of religious...

April 12, 2005 | Press Work

Violence and Harassment in Xi’an Clearance

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a National People’s Congress delegate, Ma Wenbao, is suffering official harassment after speaking out on behalf of Xi’an residents brutalized in a forced relocation scheme. Sources in China told HRIC that local officials mobilized a municipal and...

April 4, 2005 | Press Work

Retribution Feared in Shijiazhuang Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that Chinese authorities have ordered an investigation into the sources of reports of the deaths of five young female workers in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province. HRIC reported on March 2 that the young workers, ranging in age from 14 to 17...

March 22, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioner Roundup as NPC Meets

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a number of prominent petitioners have been detained or placed under house arrest in an apparent attempt to limit their activities during the National People’s Congress (NPC) and Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) sessions, which...

March 11, 2005 | Press Work

Cover-up of Child Labor Deaths in Hebei

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has been informed by a source in China of a cover-up in the workplace deaths of five child and juvenile workers. According to sources in China, a man named Wang Wei, the owner of a private company in Luancheng County, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, illegally...

March 2, 2005 | Press Work

Tiananmen Families Renew Calls for Redress as EU Considers Lifting Arms Embargo

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter written to the National People’s Congress and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference by Ding Zilin and more than 100 other family members of people killed or injured in the official crackdown on pro-democracy...

February 28, 2005 | Press Work

Petitioner Detained Before U.S. Consulate Visit

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that police detained a Shanghai resident, Chen Xiaoming, who was on his way to an appointment at the U.S. Consulate to speak with a consular official about the case of detained petitioner Mao Hengfeng. According to HRIC’s sources, Chen...

February 24, 2005 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioner Wang Mingqing Detained

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Wang Mingqing, a Shanghai resident who has been petitioning the Chinese authorities over the destruction of his home in an urban redevelopment project, was placed under administrative detention on February 16. Wang’s sister, Wang Minglan, on February 17...

February 23, 2005 | Press Work

China fails to exclude HRIC from the UN World Summit on the Information Society

Despite China’s efforts to exclude HRIC from the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) PrepCom II that opened in Geneva yesterday, HRIC participated as an affiliate NGO member of the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH). HRIC presented on critical human rights issues in China...

February 18, 2005 | Press Work

HRIC Board Statement

In light of the recent resignations of a number of HRIC’s board members and the public controversy that has been sparked by their release of an open letter explaining why they left the organization, the current HRIC board members wish to make the following brief public response. We – the members of...

February 15, 2005 | Press Work

Zhao Mourner Charged

For Immediate Release DATE: January 31, 2005 Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a Shanghai resident, Xu Zhengqing, has been formally arrested after attempting to mourn the death of ousted Party Secretary Zhao Ziyang in Beijing. According to HRIC’s sources, Xu Zhengqing was among 22...

January 31, 2005 | Press Work

Purported Zhao Ziyang Interview Warns Against Neglect of Reform

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has obtained a copy of an article purporting to record a conversation with purged Party Secretary Zhao Ziyang shortly before his death, in which Zhao is quoted as urging China to move toward democracy in order to avoid the violent tragedy of a new revolution. HRIC...

January 28, 2005 | Press Work

Fake Hong Kong Company Behind Corrupt Redevelopment Scheme

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai tycoon Zhou Zhengyi used a non-existent company as a vehicle for the urban redevelopment project that displaced hundreds of local residents. HRIC has obtained a copy of a letter sent to Chinese president Hu Jintao and premier Wen Jiabao by Shen...

January 27, 2005 | Press Work

Press Advisory on New York Memorial for Zhao Zhiyang

As a participant in arranging memorial activities for the late Zhao Zhiyang in New York, Human Rights in China (HRIC) would like to provide the following information relating to the memorial service planned for Saturday, January 22. Many members of New York City’s overseas dissident community are...

January 20, 2005 | Press Work

New York Memorial Service for Zhao Ziyang

DATE: January 20, 2004 A memorial service will be held in New York on Saturday, January 22, for former Chinese leader Zhao Ziyang, who died at 7 a.m., January 17, 2005 (Beijing Time). All who are concerned about the future of China are welcome to pay their respects from 1-3 P.M. at the Sheraton...

January 19, 2005 | Press Work

Police Monitor Public Mourning for Zhao Ziyang

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that police were deployed to monitor hundreds of petitioners who gathered to mourn around the home of former Party General Secretary Zhao Ziyang, who died on January 17. According to HRIC’s sources in China, around 9 a.m. on January 18, four to five hundred...

January 18, 2005 | Press Work

Family Planning Opponent’s Sentence Extended

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that a long-term campaigner against China’s coercive family planning policies, Mao Hengfeng, has had her custodial sentence at a Reeducation Through Labor (RTL) Camp in Shanghai increased by three months. Mao has been protesting and...

January 4, 2005 | Press Work

Political Prisoner Hada Suffers Torture in Prison

New Account Sheds Light on Degrading Conditions at Inner Mongolia’s Chifeng Prison. Human Rights in China (HRIC) called today for the urgent release of prominent Inner-Mongolian prisoner of conscience Hada. Deemed to be “resisting reform,” Hada is reported to be routinely subjected to torture and...

December 20, 2004 | Press Work

Chinese Democracy Activist Endangered in Thailand

HRIC has received an urgent appeal from sources in Thailand regarding Chinese democracy activist Lu Decheng. The sources told HRIC that Lu Decheng will be repatriated by the Thai government tomorrow, December 14, 2004. According to HRIC sources, the Thai authorities arrested Lu Decheng on December...

December 13, 2004 | Press Work

EU/China Summit: EU must get serious about human rights

Paris – New York, 6 December 2004: On December 8 in The Hague the EU/China Summit, an annual high-level meeting, will take place. The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and Human Rights in China (HRIC) urge the EU Ministers to put human rights concerns on the agenda in a meaningful...

December 6, 2004 | Press Work

Imprisoned Labor Activist Threatened with End to Family Visits if Abuse is Revealed

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that labor activist Yao Fuxin has been threatened with a curtailment of family visits while he continues to suffer severe abuse in prison. Steel worker Yao Fuxin was detained in March 2002 along with other participants in a strike protesting corruption at...

December 1, 2004 | Press Work

Appeal for Mainland Asylum Seekers Languishing in Detention in Taiwan

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Han Dongfang, Wang Dan and other dissidents overseas and in China have signed a joint letter requesting that Taiwanese authorities release two democracy activists, Yan Peng and Chen Rongli, who have been detained in Taiwan since fleeing from the...

November 30, 2004 | Press Work

Family Planning Opponent Subjected to Further Abuse

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that a long-term campaigner against China’s coercive family planning policies, Mao Hengfeng, has been subjected to cruel and unusual punishment in custody at a Reeducation Through Labor (RTL) Camp in Shanghai. Mao has been protesting...

November 24, 2004 | Press Work

Dissident Liu Jingsheng’s Release Imminent

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that dissident Liu Jingsheng will be released from prison on November 27, two and a half years prior to completion of his original sentence, in what is seen as a conciliatory gesture toward the dissident community by the Hu Jintao-Wen Jiabao government. Liu...

November 22, 2004 | Press Work

Imprisoned Lawyer Dragged from Family Visit

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that imprisoned Shanghai public interest lawyer Zheng Enchong has been subjected to unfair treatment because of his refusal to admit wrongdoing. Zheng Enchong’s wife, Jiang Meili, accompanied other family members to visit Zheng in...

November 10, 2004 | Press Work

Imprisoned Dissident Reported in Critical Health

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Hu Shigen, who has spent 13 years in prison on counterrevolutionary charges, is in such poor health that friends fear he will not live to see his release, scheduled for 2012. According to sources familiar with the situation, Hu Shigen, who is not yet 50...

November 2, 2004 | Press Work

Dissident Artist Trumps PSB in Court

Human Rights in China/> (HRIC) has learned that court proceedings in dissident artist Yan Zhengxue’s lawsuit against a Public Security Substation were adjourned after Yan produced evidence that the bureau had manufactured evidence in its defense. Yan Zhengxue has been embroiled in a legal...

October 29, 2004 | Press Work

Human Rights Update: Tibetan Writer Persecuted for Praising Dalai Lama

Human Rights in China/> (HRIC) has learned that a Tibetan writer, Wei Se (also known as Oser), has lost her job, home and freedom of movement because Chinese officials consider her writings overly favorable to the Dalai Lama. Sources in China/> told HRIC that China/>/>’s United Front...

October 27, 2004 | Press Work

Three Gorges Villagers in International Appeal

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an urgent appeal from 650 people resettled as a result of the Three Gorges Dam project. The group, led by Fu Xiancai, has asked HRIC to deliver a petition to the relevant United Nations bodies in hopes that the international community will assist them in...

October 26, 2004 | Press Work

Trial Adjourned as Plaintiffs Barred from Court

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that plaintiffs in a court case alleging corruption in an urban clearance were barred from attending the trial, only to have their case adjourned due to their absence. According to HRIC’s sources in China, the Shanghai Luwan District Court had set the...

October 25, 2004 | Press Work

Pressure Mounts for Release of Zhao Ziyang

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a concerted campaign is mounting in China for the release of former Party General Secretary Zhao Ziyang, who was purged from his position and has been living under house arrest since the official crackdown against the Chinese Democracy Movement in June...

October 15, 2004 | Press Work

Send a birthday greeting to Zhao Ziyang

October 15, 2004 | Press Work

Children Reported among Victims of Chinese Government’s Persecution of Falun Gong

A recent report by the Global Mission to Rescue Persecuted Falun Gong Practitioners provides the details of the deaths of at least five children ranging in age from eight months to 17 years who have died as a result of persecution of the Falun Gong spiritual group in China. The report also...

October 12, 2004 | Press Work

Not “Another Time” for June 4th

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) is extremely concerned over remarks made by French President Jacques Chirac. According to news accounts on October 7, President Chirac called for a speedy end to the European Union ban on arms sales to China on the basis that the violent 1989...

October 8, 2004 | Press Work

One-Child Policy Opponent Tortured

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an appeal for help on behalf of a Shanghainese woman, Mao Hengfeng, who has reportedly been subjected to torture and abusive treatment because of her public protests against China’s official one-child policy. According to HRIC’s sources, Mao Hengfeng was...

October 5, 2004 | Press Work

Update on Zhao Yan Case

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information providing further details on the background of the arrest of journalist Zhao Yan, which exemplifies the pernicious effect of Chinese State Secrets Law as applied to journalists and civil society actors. At the time of his arrest, Zhao Yan was...

September 30, 2004 | Press Work

Background on Zhao Yan’s arrest

Sources in China have told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that journalist Zhao Yan may have been detained to prevent his carrying out a hunger strike for the release of peasant activist Zhang Youren. Zhao Yan was arrested in Shanghai on September 16. At the time, he was working as a researcher for...

September 29, 2004 | Press Work

Dissidents Sentenced in Unrelated Murder Trial

Sources in China have told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that two Chinese democracy activists, Kong Youping and Ning Xianhua, have been imprisoned in relation to a murder in which they had no involvement. Informed sources told HRIC that the principal defendants in the case were Fan Zhenwen and Lü...

September 23, 2004 | Press Work

China Detains Prominent Artist and Dissident

In the lead up to the meeting of the Central Party Committee of the 16th Party Congress, Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Yan Zhengxue, a well-known artist and dissident has been secretly detained by police from the State Security Department. According to HRIC sources, at 2:35 in the...

September 15, 2004 | Press Work

Protesting Peasants Under Siege in Wanli Village

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that police and officials have once again brought in convicted criminals to suppress protests by peasants of Wanli Village in Cangshan Town, Fuzhou City, Fujian Province. The peasants of Wanli Village have been engaged in an extended protest against...

September 9, 2004 | Press Work

Massive Crackdown on Petitioners in Beijing

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that tens of thousands of petitioners from all over China have recently been detained in Beijing, with many suffering abusive conditions in custody. According to HRIC’s sources in China, police detained more than 36,000 petitioners in the first few days of...

September 8, 2004 | Press Work

Police and Thugs Suppress Fujian Peasant Protest

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter by a group of peasants in Fujian appealing for China’s central government to intervene on a case in which police brought in hired thugs to suppress a village protest. The open letter by peasants from Wanli Village in Cangshan Town...

August 25, 2004 | Press Work

Strange Justice Alleged in Village Case

July 30, 2004 Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information suggesting that a young woman was wrongly convicted of a crime because of her father’s efforts to clamp down on a massive corruption ring in their home village. The Intermediate People’s Court of Tangshan City, Hebei Province is...

July 30, 2004 | Press Work

Journalist Pursued for Aiding Peasants

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that police have pressured peasant advocate Wu Zhongkai to frame Zhao Yan, a journalist who has written articles on the Tangshan peasant controversy. Zhao has already lost his job and his father as a result of official harassment, and...

July 12, 2004 | Press Work

Tangshan Peasant Protest Leader Detained in Advance of Wen Visit

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Public Security police have detained Zhang Youren, the leader of a group of farmers in Tangshan, Hebei Province, who have been protesting the terms of their forced relocation. The detention comes as the city prepares for a visit...

July 6, 2004 | Press Work

Tangshan Petitioners Persecuted

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Zhang Youren, the leader of a group of displaced farmers in Hebei province, has been subjected to severe official persecution. Zhang was forcibly confined to a hospital and is now under house arrest after more than 11,000 people signed a petition...

July 2, 2004 | Press Work

Sichuan Peasants Accuse Official in Land Grab

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that 4,000 peasants from villages surrounding Zigong City, Sichuan Province, have submitted a petition to the central government alleging wrongdoing by the deputy secretary of the disciplinary inspection committee of Sichuan Province, Liu Youlin, in relation...

June 17, 2004 | Press Work

Postponement of Torture Mission "Disappointing"

Human Rights in China (HRIC) expresses its deep disappointment and concern over the PRC government’s announcement that it has postponed the planned mission by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Torture, Theo Van Boven, which was expected to take place this month. The previous Special...

June 16, 2004 | Press Work

Jiang Yanyong Refused U.S. Visit

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Dr. Jiang Yanyong, who gained respect inside and outside of China for exposing China’s SARS crisis and calling for an official reassessment of the 1989 Democracy Movement, has been refused permission to leave China to visit his...

June 11, 2004 | Press Work

Refugee Land Confiscation Leaves Thousands Homeless

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the government of Ningde City, Fujian Province has forcibly confiscated land originally set aside for overseas Chinese seeking refuge in China, rendering thousands of these refugees homeless. A source in China has provided HRIC with a report by Chinese...

June 11, 2004 | Press Work

Forced Psychiatric Treatment Threatened for AIDS Activist Hu Jia

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that well-known AIDS activist Hu Jia is facing the prospect of China’s dreaded “judicial psychiatry,” a means of persecuting dissidents and removing them from public circulation, sometimes permanently. According to HRIC’s sources in China, Beijing Public...

June 9, 2004 | Press Work

June 4th “Hooligan” Update

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has obtained information regarding the current situations of a number of Chinese citizens sentenced to long terms for various crimes of so-called “hooliganism” during the brutal crackdown on protesters in June 1989. Ren Hongze was sentenced to 14...

June 3, 2004 | Press Work

Retrial Demanded for China Tiananmen Student

Reuters ...``We learned that Zhang Ming was subjected to considerable physical and mental abuse, including being tied to a bed for 113 hours without toilet access,'' the nine said in their letter, a copy of which was provided to reporters by the New York-based Human Rights in China group. ``We...

June 3, 2004 | Press Work

June 4th Memorial Vigil

Human Rights in China (HRIC), as a member of the June 4th Memorial Global Coalition, will be participating in a candlelight vigil on June 4th in front of the Chinese Consulate in New York City from 7:00-10:00 p.m. HRIC invites members of the public to join in calling for accountability from the...

June 2, 2004 | Press Work

Tiananmen’s “Most Wanted” Call for Retrial for Zhang Ming

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an open letter signed by several of the student protesters that the Chinese government put on its “Most Wanted” list after the crackdown on the Democracy Movement in June 1989. The open letter calls for Chinese authorities to grant a speedy, fair and open...

June 2, 2004 | Press Work | June Fourth

Mass House Arrests Before June 4th

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that members of the Tiananmen Mothers and other dissidents have been placed under virtual or actual house arrest in a pre-June 4th crackdown. According to sources in China, Tiananmen Mothers Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and Yin Min had been planning to...

May 28, 2004 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Appeal for Public Pressure on the Chinese Authorities

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Ding Zilin, now under effective house arrest, has been officially notified that “Under the present regime there will be no resolution of the June 4th question.” Ding is leader of the Tiananmen Mothers, a group of family members of people killed or...

May 28, 2004 | Press Work

June 4th Activist Li Hai to be Released from Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Li Hai, a political activist who participated in the 1989 democracy movement, will be released from prison on May 30 upon completion of his nine-year sentence. According to sources in China, many of Li’s friends in the dissident community have made...

May 28, 2004 | Press Work

Hope of Retrial for Tiananmen Veteran Zhang Ming

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that imprisoned dissident Zhang Ming, who has been on hunger strike for several months, may be granted retrial. According to sources in China, China’s Supreme People’s Court has approved Zhang’s application for an appeal, and has notified the Shanghai...

May 21, 2004 | Press Work

June 4th Photographic Exhibition to be Launched

Issued on behalf of the June 4th Memorial Global Coalition More than 26 cities in 17 countries will mount an exhibition of 100 photographs commemorating the 15th anniversary of the violent crackdown against the 1989 Democracy Movement in China. The exhibition is aimed not only at refreshing...

May 19, 2004 | Press Work

Internet Activist Du Daobin Goes to Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Internet activist Du Daobin will go to trial on May 18 in closed proceedings, and without the benefit of his chosen defense counsel. According to sources in China, although Du Daobin’s lawyer, Mo Shaoping, had presented the court with his schedule of...

May 17, 2004 | Press Work | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers | Dissidents

Tiananmen Prisoner Zhang Ming on Hunger Strike

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Tiananmen veteran Zhang Ming is in critical condition after embarking on a hunger strike in his Shanghai prison to protest his harsh sentence on what he claims are bogus charges. Zhang Ming was one of 21 student leaders of the 1989 pro-democracy...

April 13, 2004 | Press Work

Petitioner Sentenced for Internet Postings

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that petitioner Ma Yalian has been sentenced to one and a half years of Reeducation Through Labor (RTL) because of articles she posted on the Internet exposing the dark side of China’s petitioning system. Ma’s harsh treatment is an example of the recent...

March 31, 2004 | Press Work

HRIC Condemns Arrest of Ding Zilin and Others

Human Rights in China (HRIC) strongly protests the recent arrest of “Tiananmen Mothers” Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and Huang Jinping, and is raising their cases with governments and UN human rights bodies. According to sources in China, Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and Huang Jinping were each...

March 29, 2004 | Press Work | Tiananmen Mothers

Internet Dissident Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Internet dissident Ouyang Yi was sentenced to two years in prison on charges of “incitement to subvert state power.” Ouyang was tried in secret at the Chengdu Intermediate People’s Court on March 16 without any prior notice given to his family or even...

March 23, 2004 | Press Work

Legal Expert Cao Siyuan May Face Arrest for Subversion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing-based legal expert Cao Siyuan may be arrested for subversion upon his return to China after a visit to the United States. According to sources in China, Cao Siyuan, who gained fame after proposing and drafting China’s first bankruptcy law, has...

March 18, 2004 | Press Work

Christian Face Long Sentences in Secret Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that house church leaders Liu Fenggang, Xu Yonghai and Zhang Shengqi were tried in secret on the morning of March 16 at the Intermediate People’s Court of Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province. Originally charged with “inciting the gathering of state secrets,” the...

March 16, 2004 | Press Work

Gangster Tactics Employed Against Petitioner

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities have begun using gangster tactics to dissuade Hong Kong resident Shen Ting from her campaign on behalf of jailed lawyer Zheng Enchong and Shanghai residents displaced by urban redevelopment schemes. According to HRIC’s sources in...

March 5, 2004 | Press Work

Dissidents Detained and Beaten as NPC Opens

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing police have continued their wide scale crackdown against activists in preparation for the National People’s Congress. Dissidents, house church leaders and petitioners have been deprived of their liberty, with some subjected to severe physical...

March 5, 2004 | Press Work

Further Harassment of Zheng Enchong’s Wife

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Jiang Meili, the wife of jailed lawyer Zheng Enchong, was arrested once again while on the way to visit her husband in prison. According to sources in China, Shanghai’s Tilanqiao Prison sets aside the third and fourth of every month for family visits....

March 4, 2004 | Press Work

Lawyer's Wife Illegally Detained Again

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Jiang Meili, the wife of jailed Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong, has recently been released from three days’ unlawful detention. According to HRIC’s sources, Jiang Meili had gone to Beijing on February 28 to petition the National People’s Congress on...

March 1, 2004 | Press Work

Petitioner Shen Ting Denied Entry to Mainland

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Hong Kong resident Shen Ting was detained by Chinese Customs officials for more than two hours at the Lowu border on February 26, after which her Home Return Permit (huixiangzheng) was confiscated without explanation. Shen Ting was preparing to fly...

February 27, 2004 | Press Work

Crackdown on Activists Prior to NPC Meeting

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing authorities have taken suppressive action against more than 200 activists in preparation for the upcoming session of the National People’s Congress. According to sources in Beijing, certain persons identified by the authorities as “unsafe” have...

February 26, 2004 | Press Work

House Church Leaders Charged

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that house church leaders Liu Fenggang and Xu Yonghai have been formally charged with revealing state secrets. According to sources in China, Liu Fenggang’s wife, Bi Yuxia, was notified by telephone by the Zhejiang Procuratorate on February 23 that Liu had...

February 24, 2004 | Press Work

Hope for release of Internet dissident Du Daobin

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the case of Internet dissident Du Daobin has been referred back to the Public Security Bureau on the grounds of insufficient evidence, raising hopes that Du will soon be released in the same way as the Internet dissident he defended, Liu Di. Du Daobin...

February 11, 2004 | Press Work

Lawyer Zheng Enchong’s Wife Petitions Government over Prison Abuse

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Jiang Meili, the wife of imprisoned lawyer Zheng Enchong, has written a letter to Chinese leaders Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao appealing for their intervention in Zheng’s prison conditions. According to HRIC’s sources, Jiang Meili was allowed to visit...

February 6, 2004 | Press Work

Falungong members Zhang Jun and Li Chiyue on hunger strike, denied access to counsel

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received an appeal for help from relatives of Falungong members Zhang Jun and her 20-year old daughter Li Chiyue, who have been on a hunger strike for over 8 days and may be in critical condition. Zhang and Li are being denied access to their lawyer in violation of...

January 30, 2004 | Press Work

Open letter demands reform of prescription drug system

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Liu Feiyue, a teacher from Suizhou city in Hubei province, has drafted and circulated an open letter to the Chinese government demanding that it assume responsibility for safeguarding the health and lives of the Chinese people and calling for reform of...

January 26, 2004 | Press Work

Dissident Sang Jiancheng Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that on January 6, Shanghai-based political activist Sang Jiancheng was sentenced by the Shanghai Intermediate People’s Court to three years in prison on charges of incitement to subvert state power. Local activists such as Li Guotao...

January 6, 2004 | Press Work

Jailed Labor Activists Refused Medical Parole

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that prison officials have refused a request by the families of jailed Liaoyang labor activists Yao Fuxin and Xiao Yunliang to grant Yao and Xiao medical parole for severe health problems. According to sources, family members recently visited the two men in...

December 19, 2003 | Press Work

Zheng Enchong Appeal Set for December 18, U.S. Consulate Officials Invited to Attend

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Shanghai Supreme People’s Court will deliver its ruling in the appeal of lawyer Zheng Enchong on December 18 at 10:00 a.m. According to sources in China, the court informed Zheng’s wife, Jiang Meili, through his lawyers that three family members...

December 17, 2003 | Press Work

No Open Trial for Zheng Enchong Appeal

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that there will be no public court hearing for the appeal of Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong. Observers in China believe the lack of public access is an attempt by Chinese authorities to diffuse growing public support for Zheng, who on October 28 was sentenced...

December 2, 2003 | Press Work

New China Internet Study Ignores Internet Crackdown Markle/CASS Report Methodology “Misleading”

(New York, November 25, 2003) -- A new study of Internet use and its impact in China fails to address the Chinese government’s ongoing campaign against web users who express views Beijing doesn’t like, Human Rights in China said today. The new report Surveying Internet Usage and Impact in Twelve...

November 25, 2003 | Press Work

Rights Group Charges China Prosecutes Internet Activist

... on trial in Beijing. The New York-based Human Rights in China group says Jiang Lijun was arrested a year ago. The group's Nicolas ... To view full article, please visit: http://www.iwar.org.uk/news-archive/2003/11-04-2.

November 6, 2003 | Press Work

HRIC’s Statement on the Conviction of Zheng Enchong

On October 28 the Shanghai Second Intermediate People’s Court sentenced lawyer Zheng Enchong to three years in prison on charges of “illegally providing state secrets to entities outside of China.” The news media have reported that the judgment mentioned Human Rights in China (HRIC). HRIC has now...

November 5, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Jiang Lijun to be Tried for Subversion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Internet activist Jiang Lijun will be tried on November 4 on charges of “incitement to subvert state power.” According to HRIC’s sources, Jiang Lijun will be tried in a closed court session at the Beijing Intermediate Court. Jiang was detained on...

November 3, 2003 | Press Work

Petitioner Appeals for Help from the Hong Kong Government

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Hong Kong resident Shen Ting, who has been involved in protests by Shanghai residents displaced by redevelopment schemes, has sent out an emergency appeal for assistance from the Hong Kong government. HRIC has obtained a copy of Shen Ting’s letter,...

October 30, 2003 | Press Work

Abuse of Process Alleged in Fujian Sedition Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Li Jianfeng and seven others will go on trial in the Intermediate People’s Court in Sanming City, Fujian Province, on October 30 on charges of incitement to subvert state power. At the same time, Li Jianfeng has with his co-defendants accused the...

October 29, 2003 | Press Work

Chinese dissident set for early release from prison

ABC Radio Australia A leading Chinese dissident who spent more than a decade in prison is reportedly set to be released before completing his full sentence. Human Rights in China says 38-year-old Kang Yuchun, is to be freed more than five years before the end of his original 17-year sentence in...

October 28, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Yan Jun Tried for Subversion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the secret arraignment of Shaanxi-based Internet activist Yan Jun on charges of “incitement to subvert state power.” According to sources in China, Yan was charged with subversion in closed proceedings at the Intermediate People’s Court in Xi’an at 9:30...

October 27, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Kang Yuchun Released

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Kang Yuchun will be released from prison on October 28, more than five years before his original anticipated release date of May 28, 2009. Arrested on May 29, 1992, Kang was tried with Hu Shigen and others on accusations of “counter-revolutionary...

October 27, 2003 | Press Work

October 28 Verdict Set for Lawyer Zheng Enchong

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Shanghai Intermediate People’s Court will hand down its verdict on the trial of lawyer Zheng Enchong on October 28. Zheng Enchong went on trial on August 28 on charges of “illegally providing state secrets to entities outside of China.” According...

October 24, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Redevelopment Petitioners Face “Reeducation”

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from sources in China that more than ten people involved in repeated protests against Shanghai’s redevelopment and relocation scheme will soon be sentenced to Reeducation Through Labor (RTL) on charges of “illegal assembly.” The dozen or so protesters were...

October 20, 2003 | Press Work

Activist Liu Fenggang Detained

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing-based religious activist Liu Fenggang was detained in Hangzhou on October 13, 2003 on accusations of “revealing state secrets,” while his residence in Beijing was searched by public security officials. Liu Fenggang is a religious activist who...

October 17, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Redevelopment Protesters Abused in Detention

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Chinese officials are employing abusive tactics against a large group of people involved in protests against urban redevelopment programs in Shanghai. Around 85 protesters were arrested on September 30 while visiting Beijing for purposes of petitioning...

October 9, 2003 | Press Work

Crackdown on Dissidents for National Day

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Chinese authorities have carried out a wide-scale crackdown on dissidents during the political sensitive period surrounding China’s national day. HRIC has learned of the following actions against dissidents: 1) On the morning of September 30 Beijing...

October 2, 2003 | Press Work

Detained Shanghai Petitioners in Hunger Strike

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that petitioners from Shanghai rounded up in a massive police raid in Beijing on September 30 have begun a hunger strike to protest abusive treatment in detention. A large group of petitioners had traveled from Shanghai to Beijing to petition the central...

October 1, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioners Detained in National Day Roundup

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that in the early hours of September 30 Public Security officials carried out a large-scale roundup of at least 85 people in Beijing. According to HRIC’s sources, many of those arrested were people who had come from Shanghai to petition the authorities on...

September 29, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Li Zhi Arrested for Subversion

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that the Chinese government has continued its crackdown on free expression on the Internet with the arrest of Internet activist Li Zhi. According to sources in China, on September 3 Sichuan Province State Security Police formally arrested Li Zhi on charges...

September 23, 2003 | Press Work

HRIC Pays Tribute to Arthur C. Helton

HRIC notes with sadness the death of board member Arthur C. Helton. Mr. Helton, the director of peace and conflict studies at the Council on Foreign Relations and senior fellow for refugee studies and preventative action, was killed in August 2003 by a bomb blast at the United Nations headquarters...

September 19, 2003 | Press Work

HRIC Excluded From World Summit On the Information Society

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has been denied accreditation to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) scheduled for Geneva in December. The failure to include HRIC in the upcoming WSIS raises serious concerns about the transparency and legitimacy of this multilateral process and any...

September 18, 2003 | Press Work

China and the WTO Roundtable

Wednesday, September 10, 2003 3:30-5:30PM Hotel Sierra, Cancun Room 4 Convened by: Human Rights in China (HRIC) and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) This roundtable will examine issues presented by China’s first year implementation of WTO obligations and its impact on human...

September 10, 2003 | Press Work

Protesters Arrested as Zheng Enchong goes on Trial

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong was tried behind closed doors on August 28 on charges of “illegally providing state secrets to entities outside of China.” More than three hundred people to whom Zheng Enchong had been providing legal advice gathered to...

August 28, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Lawyer’s Trial Date Set

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong will be tried in secret on August 28 on charges of “illegally providing state secrets to entities outside of China.” Sources in China say Zheng’s case will be heard before the Shanghai Second Intermediate People’s Court...

August 25, 2003 | Press Work

Public Proceedings Initiated against Jailed Lawyer

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a formal public prosecution has commenced against Shanghai lawyer Zheng Enchong on charges of illegally obtaining state secrets. Zheng Enchong was originally detained on June 6 after assisting displaced families in more than 500 cases relating to...

August 19, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Zhao Changqing Jailed for 5 Years

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on August 4 the Xi’an Intermediate People’s Court sentenced dissident Zhao Changqing to five years in prison following a secret trial on July 10. Zhao had been charged with inciting subversion of state power on June 25 following...

August 4, 2003 | Press Work

Interventions Made on Behalf of Jailed Lawyer

For Immediate Release July 30, 2003 Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter sent to Chinese president Hu Jintao and premier Wen Jiabao by Jiang Meili, the wife of detained lawyer Zheng Enchong. Zheng was originally detained on June 6 on accusations of stealing state...

July 30, 2003 | Press Work

Protest Planned as Discontent Seethes in Beijing

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that more than 1,000 people plan a public protest in Beijing on the morning of July 17 to voice their concerns about perceived threats to their livelihoods. According to HRIC’s sources in Beijing, these people have stationed...

July 16, 2003 | Press Work

The Tiananmen Mothers's open letter to comrades in Hong Kong

Our support to your fight against the legislation of Article 23 of Basic Law July 10, 2003 Having known that over 500,000 Hong Kong citizens marched on streets on July 1 protesting against the legislation of the draconian law on implementing Article 23, we again learned from radio news report...

July 10, 2003 | Press Work | Hong Kong | June Fourth | Tiananmen Mothers

Daughter of Christian Activist Denied School Place

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that officials have refused to issue a household registration certificate (hukou) to the young daughter of Beijing-based Christian activist Hua Huiqi, resulting in her being deprived of the right to attend school. Sources in China...

July 7, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Zhao Changqing Charged With Subversion

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Xi’an-based dissident Zhao Changqing was formally charged with inciting subversion of state power on June 25. Zhao’s lawyer, Dou Peixin, was notified of the charge on June 26. The trial, scheduled for early July, is expected to be...

June 27, 2003 | Press Work

Hong Kong Resident Petitions Chinese Leaders over Shanghai Redevelopment Scandal

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter written by a Hong Kong resident, Shen Ting (Sum Ting) calling for China’s central government to intervene in the ongoing Shanghai redevelopment scandal. In her letter to Chinese president Hu Jintao and...

June 24, 2003 | Press Work

Appeal Proceedings Commence for Liaoyang Labor Activists

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that appeal proceedings for Liaoyang labor activists Yao Fuxin and Xiao Yunliang will commence on June 27. However, lawyers and family members of the defendants were not notified in advance, and officials have warned fellow activists...

June 23, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Lawyer Zheng Enchong Formally Arrested

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that on June 18 Shanghai authorities formally arrested Zheng Enchong, a lawyer who has been assisting residents fighting redevelopment of their neighborhoods. Zheng was originally detained on June 6 on accusations of stealing state...

June 20, 2003 | Press Work

Large-Scale Police Action Against Yunnan Christians

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that 12 members of an unauthorized house church in Yunnan Province have been arrested, with eight members facing imprisonment. According to sources in China, the arrested persons, including Wang Qiyou, Huang Yuting, Huang Changshou,...

June 18, 2003 | Press Work

Christian Prisoner Reported Dangerously Ill

For immediate release Friends and relatives of Christian dissident Gong Shengliang have appealed for help from the international community on reports that Gong is near death as a result of abusive treatment in prison. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter signed by 34...

June 10, 2003 | Press Work

Protest over Internet Crackdown for June 4th

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter protesting the blocking of a Chinese Web site during the politically sensitive period around the June 4 anniversary. The open letter was sent by Ren Bumei, operator of the Bumei Zhiye Web site (the open...

June 5, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Petitioners in June 4 Crackdown

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that under the tense political atmosphere of the June 4 anniversary authorities are taking repressive measures against people protesting urban clearances in Shanghai. According to sources in Shanghai, a group of more than 100...

June 4, 2003 | Press Work

Imprisoned Internet Dissident on Hunger Strike

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Xu Wei, an Internet activist sentenced last week to 10 years in prison, has gone on hunger strike to protest ill treatment in custody. Sources close to Xu Wei told HRIC that Xu has refused all food since his May 28 sentencing, and his health is rapidly...

June 2, 2003 | Press Work

Lawsuit Alleges Corruption in Shanghai Redevelopment

For Immediate Release Displaced residents of a redevelopment project in Shanghai have commenced a lawsuit alleging collusion between the developer and government officials. Sources told Human Rights in China (HRIC) that residents waiting outside of the courtroom were kept under close surveillance...

May 30, 2003 | Press Work

Four Internet Activists Imprisoned for Subversion

Correction: In 2003, HRIC erroneously reported that Jin Haike, Xu Wei, Yang Zili and Zhang Honghai were charged with “inciting subversion of state power.” The actual charge was “subversion of state power.” The correction has been made in this press release. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned...

May 28, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Clearance Protesters Prevented from Traveling to Beijing

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the arrest of a group of more than 150 people attempting to petition central authorities in Beijing over clearance and redevelopment of their Shanghai neighborhoods. The protesters, many of whom have made previous unsuccessful...

May 20, 2003 | Press Work

Chinese Intellectual Sues China’s State Council

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a Chinese intellectual, Li Weiping, has brought a lawsuit against China’s State Council demanding repeal of the revised Regulations on Publication Management. HRIC has received a copy of the legal complaint (appended in full to...

May 15, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Clearance Protesters Arrested Under SARS Precautions

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that under tight restrictions to prevent the spread of the SARS epidemic Shanghai authorities have detained 132 protesters from households affected by urban clearance. The protest, which began at 12:30 in the afternoon on May 1 at the...

May 1, 2003 | Press Work

Liaoyang Activists Warned to Avoid American Delegation

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from a number of sources in China that several labor activists in the northeastern city of Liaoyang were detained by police over the weekend and warned to have no contact with a contingent of American diplomats and foreign reporters...

April 21, 2003 | Press Work

Shanghai Clearance Petitioners Thwarted Again

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that representatives of households affected by urban clearance in Shanghai have been arrested during an attempt to petition officials in Beijing. Representatives of more than 300 households, including Ai Furong and Wang Huifang, had...

April 17, 2003 | Press Work

China Human Rights Policy: 10 Years After Vienna

Convened by FIDH and the International Fellowship of Reconciliation Palais des Nations, Room XXIV Monday, March 31, 2003 1:00-3:00 PM Statement by Liu Qing, President of Human Rights in China In recent years, China’s human rights situation has diverged in two different directions. On the one hand...

March 31, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Jiang Lijun Formally Arrested

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the formal arrest of Jiang Lijun, an Internet activist who disappeared in November. According to HRIC’s sources, Jiang is currently being detained in Qincheng Prison. Sources say that Jiang is a close confederate of two other...

March 25, 2003 | Press Work

Liaoyang Activist Xiao Yunliang’s Health Deteriorates in Prison

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that labor activist Xiao Yunliang is suffering deteriorating health in custody and has begun spitting blood. Xiao’s family and fellow activists have petitioned authorities on his behalf, but so far without effect. Xiao Yunliang...

March 20, 2003 | Press Work

Relocation Petitioners Rebuffed

For Immediate Release March 13, 2003 Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a group of 45 people protesting redevelopment of their Shanghai neighborhood were prevented from petitioning Beijing authorities with their grievance. Sources told HRIC that the 45 Shanghai residents, including...

March 13, 2003 | Press Work

Liaoyang Labor Activists’ Daughters Detained

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that the daughters of Liaoyang labor activists Yao Fuxin and Xiao Yunliang were detained today after attempting to meet lawyer Mo Shaoping in Beijing. Mo Shaoping has been providing legal representation for Yao...

March 3, 2003 | Press Work

A Dozen People Still Missing Since June 4th, Say Tiananmen Mothers

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter issued by the Tiananmen Mothers calling on China' s National People' s Congress (NPC) to urge the Chinese government to engage in a dialogue to resolve issues relating to June 4th. The letter is signed by...

March 3, 2003 | Press Work | June Fourth

Dissident He Depu Formally Arrested

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that He Depu has been formally charged with inciting the overthrow of the state power. Sources say He’s charges stem from official fears of dissident political activity during the meetings of the National People’s...

March 3, 2003 | Press Work

Liaoyang Authorities in Renewed Crackdown on Worker Protests

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that authorities in the northeastern industrial city of Liaoyang have arrested labor leader Wang Dawei, and have taken suppressive action against further street protests by disgruntled workers. The renewed crackdown follows overtures...

February 24, 2003 | Press Work

On the Enactment of Article 23 Legislation in Hong Kong

Joint Public Statement We, the undersigned, wish to express our deep concern at the draft legislation on Article 23. As the proposals stand, the outcome of this legislation will be an erosion of “One Country-Two Systems” and a decrease in the protection and promotion of fundamental human rights...

February 21, 2003 | Press Work

Liaoyang Workers Negotiating for Release of Yao Fuxin

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that worker representatives in the northeastern city of Liaoyang have begun negotiating with municipal authorities for the release of labor activists Yao Fuxin and Xiao Yunliang, currently being held on subversion...

February 20, 2003 | Press Work

Activist Writer Wang Lixiong Dismissed from Environmental Group

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that writer and activist Wang Lixiong has been forced to leave his position in the Chinese environmental NGO, “Friends of Nature.” Friends of Nature was formed in 1994, the first officially recognized...

February 14, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Jia Wei Detained on Escape Fears

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that Jia Wei, a dissident based in Changchun, Jilin Province, was apprehended by a group of men wearing military uniforms while seeking work in Xiamen, Fujian Province, on January 10. According to information, Jia...

February 13, 2003 | Press Work

HRIC Calls for Reassessment of Article 23 Submissions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Human Rights in China (HRIC) objects to the Hong Kong SAR Security Bureau’s classification of its submission on Article 23 as “unclear” and calls for an objective reassessment of all submissions. HRIC’s views on Article 23 are very clear. HRIC has not taken a stand on...

February 7, 2003 | Press Work

Suizhou Resident Protests Forced Subscription to Party Newspaper

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that authorities in Suizhou, Hubei Province, have been forcing residents to subscribe to the local party newspaper. A teacher, Liu Feiyue, has published an open letter to the National People’s Congress protesting this attempt at “...

February 4, 2003 | Press Work

Dissident Fang Jue Expelled from China

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that prominent dissident Fang Jue has been expelled from China. A well-known participant in China’s democracy movement, Fang Jue has been missing since November 4, when it is believed he was detained as part of a general crackdown on...

January 24, 2003 | Press Work

Scholar Wang Daqi Sentenced to Prison

For Immediate Release January 16, 2003 Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that an elderly scholar, Wang Daqi, has been sentenced to prison for publishing political writings. According to several sources in China, Wang Daqi, aged 70 and formerly a professor at Hefei Industrial University,...

January 16, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Ouyang Yi Formally Arrested

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that political dissident and Internet activist Ouyang Yi has been formally arrested, making him the latest victim in the Chinese government’s crackdown against political expression on the Internet. Sources in China, including several...

January 15, 2003 | Press Work

Authorities Arrest more than Twenty Members of Shanghai House Church

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Shanghai authorities arrested more than twenty members of an underground church and sentenced the church’s leader, Xu Guoxing, to 18 months of Reeducation Through Labor. HRIC learned of Xu’s arrest and sentencing through an...

January 14, 2003 | Press Work

Internet Activist Tao Haidong Goes on Trial

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Xinjiang Internet activist Tao Haidong, missing for several months, has been tried and is awaiting sentencing. The trial follows the recent arrests of Internet activists Liu Di and Li Yibin. Informed sources in Urumqi say Tao...

January 14, 2003 | Press Work

Open Letter Signatory Han Lifa Detained

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the secret detention of dissident Han Lifa, one of 192 opposition activists who signed an open letter to China’s 16th Party Congress calling for political reform. According to dissident Cai Guihua and other sources, Shanghai Public...

January 8, 2003 | Press Work

Harbin Woman Allegedly Persecuted for Exercising Her Right to Petition

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a woman visiting Beijing to present a petition was detained under suspicious circumstances and is now scheduled to appear in a Beijing court on January 9 in relation to an alleged assault. Zhang Gonglai, a Harbin nursery school...

January 7, 2003 | Press Work

Beijing Authorities Take Hard Line on Christian Activist Hua Huiqi

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Beijing officials have retaliated against Christian activist Hua Huiqi and his family following their protests against forced removal for redevelopment of their neighborhood. Hua Huiqi and his family, along with members of four...

January 6, 2003 | Press Work

Christian Activist Hua Huiqi Detained in Protest

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that Christian activist Hua Huiqi and a group of Beijing residents staged a protest march at midnight January 4 Beijing time. The group started out at Hua’s home and intended to march to Tiananmen Square, but...

January 3, 2003 | Press Work

Crackdown on Dissidents Accompanies Release of Xu Wenli

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from reliable sources that Chinese dissident Zhao Changqing, secretly detained two months ago, has now been officially arrested, and that several other participants in an open letter to China’s 16th Party Congress have been secretly...

January 2, 2003 | Press Work

Chinese Dissidents in Hunger Strike for Better Prison Conditions

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that a Chinese prisoner of conscience, An Jun, is in critical condition after refusing food for more than three weeks in a protest calling for better prison conditions. Dissident An Jun, aged 47, was sentenced to four years in prison...

December 31, 2002 | Press Work

HRIC Welcomes Release Of Xu Wenli But Warns Against Complacency

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the Chinese government’s release of dissident Xu Wenli and others. At the same time, HRIC calls on the Chinese government to genuinely improve its human rights situation rather than offer occasional gestures such as the release of...

December 24, 2002 | Press Work

Human Rights in China calls for extension of consultation on Hong Kong’s Article 23

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China has made a submission to the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region regarding the government’s consultation document outlining its proposals to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law. Article 23 provides for the enactment of laws to...

December 23, 2002 | Press Work

Internet Activist Li Yibin Detained

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the detention of yet another Internet activist following the secret detention of Liu Di, “the Stainless Steel Mouse,” one month ago. Sources in China have told HRIC that Li Yibin, publisher of the online magazine “Democracy and...

December 17, 2002 | Press Work

Washington expected to take gentle line during human rights dialogue

As the US needs Beijing's support on Iraq and North Korea, analysts say it is unlikely to take a strongly critical approach On the eve of renewed Sino-US human rights talks, analysts have predicted Washington will not take a tough line for fear of risking Beijing's backing on issues such as...

December 16, 2002 | Press Work

Chinese intellectuals petition the Chinese government on behalf of condemned Tibetans

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a petition from 24 Chinese intellectuals to the National People’s Congress, the Chinese Supreme People's Court, and the Sichuan Province Supreme People’s Court calling for a fair retrial for Tibetan lama Tenzin Delek Rinpoche and his follower Lobsang...

December 12, 2002 | Press Work

HRIC urges international intervention on death sentence for two Tibetans

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has called for the international community to press for an open retrial in the case of Tibetan lama Tenzin Delek Rinpoche and his follower Lobsang Dhondup, who were sentenced to death after a secret trial on December 2. Tenzin Delek Rinpoche and...

December 6, 2002 | Press Work

Another Open Letter Dissident Arrested

Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the secret arrest of Dai Xuezhong, one of nearly 200 dissidents who signed an open letter to China’s 16th Party Congress calling for political reform. Dai’s arrest in Shanghai follows the arrest last month of Xi’an-based dissident Zhao Changqing, who...

December 5, 2002 | Press Work

Dissident Petitioner Detained

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned of the arrest of prominent dissident Zhao Changqing, who earlier this month distributed an open letter to China’s 16th Party Congress signed by nearly 200 opposition activists calling for political reform. Zhao’s younger sister, having...

November 26, 2002 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Calls for Immediate Release of Labor Activist Yao Fuxin

For Immediate Release Human Rights in China (HRIC) has joined with Hong Kong-based China Labour Bulletin (CLB) in calling for the immediate release of labor activist Yao Fuxin after local testimony refutes Chinese officials’ claims that Yao engaged in violent public demonstrations. Yao Fuxin was...

November 25, 2002 | Press Work

Tiananmen Mothers Petition China’s 16th Party Congress

For Immediate Release The Tiananmen Mothers, a group representing families of protesters killed or injured in Beijing during the violent official crackdown on June 4th, 1989, has issued an open letter to China’s new Politburo Standing Committee calling for justice for the victims and a more...

November 14, 2002 | Press Work | June Fourth

November 13 EU-China Dialogue: Call to the EU

FIDH and HRIC Joint Press Release Paris – New York – Hong Kong, 12 November 2002: On the eve of the EU/China dialogue, to take place on November 13 in Beijing, the FIDH and HRIC call on the EU to put its acts in line with its declarations of principle. In January 2001, the EU fixed benchmarks to...

November 12, 2002 | Press Work

Detained Dissident Fang Jue’s Housekeeper Believed Arrested

Following the arrest of Beijing-based political dissident Fang Jue on November 4, Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned that Fang’s housekeeper, Wang Jinzhi, has also been arrested. According to informed sources, Beijing Public Security police arrested Wang at the same time that they detained...

November 11, 2002 | Press Work

Surge in Petitions and Arrests Greets 16th Party Congress

China's 16th Party Congress has drawn a number of petitions and open letters from Chinese dissidents calling for political reform and greater openness. At the same time, Chinese authorities have begun arresting some vocal dissidents in order to maintain a “peaceful and stable” atmosphere for the...

November 8, 2002 | Press Work

House Church Activist Latest Victim in Pre-Congress Crackdown

For Immediate Release An active member of China’s underground Christian church, Hua Huiqi, has become the latest victim of an official crackdown against dissidents prior to the 16th Party Congress. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from knowledgeable sources that Chinese authorities have...

November 7, 2002 | Press Work

Chinese authorities employ oppressive measures to systematically exclude poorest workers from major urban centers

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT WITH EXECUTIVE SUMMARY (PDF 1.03 MB) FREE Adobe Acrobat Software to read PDF files FOR RELEASE ON NOVEMBER 6, 2002 For further information, contact: Stacy Mosher (New York) 1-212-239-4495 or Nicolas Becquelin (Hong Kong) 852-2710-8021 In the course of the...

November 6, 2002 | Press Work

Nearly 200 Dissidents Petition China’s 16th Party Congress with Political Demands

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received a copy of an open letter to the 16th Party Congress signed by 192 opposition activists from 17 provinces and cities, including Beijing and Shanghai. In the largest nationwide political action in recent years, the signatories make six...

November 5, 2002 | Press Work

Open Letter on Democracy and Human Rights by Chinese Intellectual Lin Mu

Lin Mu, an independent intellectual and former secretary to Hu Yaobang, has released an open letter through Human Rights in China (HRIC) calling on the PRC’s upcoming 16th Party Congress to take significant measures to improve relations between the Party and the people. In a tense pre-Congress...

November 4, 2002 | Press Work

Chinese Authorities Arrest Dissidents Fang Jue and Xu Wanping

In its efforts to further muffle opposition voices prior to the 16th Party Congress, Chinese authorities have initiated a new round of arrests, with at least two dissidents, Fang Jue and Xu Wanping, reportedly detained. Human Rights in China (HRIC) has learned from a reliable source that Fang Jue,...

November 4, 2002 | Press Work

Beijing Public Security Police Harass and Detain Activist Fang Jue

For Immediate Release As the Chinese government tightens political restrictions in the run-up to the 16th Party Congress, Beijing’s Public Security Bureau has severely restricted the movement of a well-known dissident, Fang Jue, and has subjected him to arbitrary detention. Fang Jue, 47, a...

October 22, 2002 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Statement on Dr. Wan Yanhai's Release

Human Rights in China (HRIC) welcomes the release of public health and AIDS activist Dr. Wan Yanhai. This release following a relatively short period of detention is a victory for the international AIDS activist and human rights communities, Dr. Wan’s friends, family, colleagues, and supporters. Dr...

September 20, 2002 | Press Work

Dissidents Convicted of Criminal Charges

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Active dissident Yan Peng and democracy theorist Mu Chuanheng were convicted for inciting to overthrow state power. They were also accused of insulting leaders of the Central government. Yan was sentenced to one and a half years and is deprived of political rights for two...

September 11, 2002 | Press Work

HIV/AIDS Activist Wan Yanhai Detained

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Human Rights in China (HRIC) has received information that Chinese HIV/AIDS activist Wan Yanhai, who disappeared on August 24, 2002, has been detained. According to Liang Yan, one of the coordinators of the Aizhi (AIDS) Action Project, on September 4 at 1:30 P.M. Beijing time...

September 5, 2002 | Press Work

HIV/AIDS Activist Wan Yanhai Disappears

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Su Zhaosheng, wife of Aizhi Action Project coordinator Wan Yanhai, informed Human Rights in China (HRIC) that Wan disappeared in Beijing while under close surveillance by plainclothes security police. On August 24 at 2pm, Wan, as a representative of the event committee, went...

August 27, 2002 | Press Work

District Court Judge Upholds Service of Human Rights Lawsuit on Former Chinese Premier on Behalf of Tiananmen Square Survivors

Press release issued by: RIPTIDE - Communications for Change CONTACT: DAVID LERNER 212.260.5000 CENTER FOR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN CHINA WIN DECISION TO PROCEED IN LI PENG CASE District Court Judge Upholds Service of Human Rights Lawsuit on Former Chinese Premier on Behalf of...

August 9, 2002 | Press Work

Li Xiaorong Denied PRC Visa

For Immediate Release On July 17, 2002, Li Xiaorong, an academic and human rights activist, was denied a visa to China to attend her mother’s funeral. After Li’s mother passed away on July 13, she, her husband and their two children applied for visas at the PRC Embassy in Washington DC to visit Li...

August 6, 2002 | Press Work

PRC Releases Democracy Activist Fang Jue

For Immediate Release Fang Jue, 47, a representative of the democracy movement and a former urban-planning official, was released on July 22, 2002 after completing his four-year sentence in Liangxiang Prison, Beijing. However, upon release, the police did not return Fang’s Hukou (Household...

July 22, 2002 | Press Work

Human Rights in China Files Lawsuit Against the Bank of China

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE New York, NY (June 14, 2002) For the first time ever, Human Rights in China (HRIC) filed a suit against the Bank of China (BOC) in federal court in New York City on June 10, 2002, charging that the BOC assisted the government of China in the confiscation of humanitarian funds...

June 14, 2002 | Press Work

Security tight for June 4 anniversary

Activists watched closely and warned against massacre protests Police continued to keep watch for signs of trouble yesterday and warned activists not to organise activities to mark today's 13th anniversary of the June 4 crackdown. Police in Guangzhou held dissident Li Wensheng for seven hours on...

June 4, 2002 | Press Work | June Fourth

Human Rights in China Media Alert

New York At the invitation of Human Rights in China, Li Xiaoming, a former PLA officer who had taken part in the suppression of the student movement of June Fourth, 1989, will come to New York to participate in June 4 commemorative activities. Li Xiaoming will arrive at JFK Terminal 8 on American...

May 24, 2002 | Press Work

Wife of detained democracy activist expelled from China

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Fu Xiang, wife of detained democracy activist Yang Jianli, was detained upon arrival in Beijing on May 22 for two hours and then was expelled from the country. Fu Xiang returned to China in an attempt to rescue Yang Jianli and assert her rights as a relative of the detained...

May 22, 2002 | Press Work

Chinese government policy shuts out poorest migrant children from urban schools, new study shows

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY DOWNLOAD FULL REPORT FOR RELEASE ON MAY 7th, 2002 For further information contact: Nicolas Becquelin +(852) 2710 8021 (office) +(852) 9805 9120 (mobile) Human Rights in China (HRIC) today charges that some of the poorest and most disadvantaged children in China’s major cities...

May 7, 2002 | Press Work

Families of June 4 victims demand accountability

In an open letter released today, 114 relatives of June 4th Massacre victims are demanding that Li Peng, widely believed to have ordered the massacre, be held legally accountable, and that the official verdict on June 4th be overturned. The letter is addressed to the National Peoples Congress (NPC...

March 1, 2002 |

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