World Uyghur Congress held secretly in Sarajevo amid Chinese pressure

The World Uyghur Congress held its meetings in Sarajevo under tight security and secrecy due to Chinese threats and pressure to cancel the event. The four-day congress concluded on Sunday with hundreds of delegates from 25 countries, protected by Bosnian police and special security units.

Despite the event’s secrecy, suspected Chinese agents were reportedly seen photographing attendees as a form of intimidation, according to Zumretay Arkin, newly elected Vice President of the Congress.

No signs indicated the event’s location, and visibly anxious hotel staff refrained from providing any details. Delegates received death threats and experienced email breaches leading up to the event, prompting organizers to enhance security measures.

Amid alleged human rights abuses against Uyghurs in China, including mass detentions and forced labor in Xinjiang, China has denied these allegations, claiming its actions aim to counter terrorism.