Amnesty International has raised concerns over China’s targeting of citizens studying abroad for their political activism, alleging a pattern of harassment and intimidation directed towards students and their families. The report highlights China’s intolerance towards political dissent and its utilization of sophisticated technology and coercive tactics to suppress activism, both domestically and internationally.
According to Amnesty International’s findings, Chinese students studying abroad have faced repercussions for their involvement in activities perceived as critical of the Chinese government, such as commemorations of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. The report details instances where family members of overseas students in China were subjected to threats and coercion, including passport revocations, job dismissals, and restrictions on personal freedom. Additionally, students abroad reported being surveilled on Chinese social media platforms and experiencing self-censorship due to fears of reprisal. The pervasive surveillance and intimidation tactics have reportedly taken a toll on the mental health of affected students, contributing to stress, trauma, and depression. Instances of self-censorship, such as refraining from publishing academic work out of fear of reprisal, underscore the chilling effect of China’s transnational repression on freedom of expression and academic inquiry.
Despite mounting criticism, Beijing has yet to respond to Amnesty International’s report. While asserting respect for other countries’ sovereignty, China has faced ongoing scrutiny over its alleged targeting of citizens living abroad. The report underscores the need for international attention and concerted efforts to address China’s transnational repression tactics, safeguarding the rights and well-being of individuals exercising their right to freedom of expression and political activism beyond the country’s borders.
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