TikTok’s sponsorship of UK Muslim heritage event sparks Uyghur concerns

A British Parliament event celebrating the cultural contributions of Muslims in the UK has drawn criticism for its sponsorship by TikTok, a platform accused of suppressing content on human rights abuses against Uyghur Muslims, media reports said.

The event, scheduled for 11 March in the House of Lords, is organized by Baroness Shaista Gohir and the Muslim Women’s Network UK (MWNUK) as part of Muslim Heritage Month. However, Uyghur activists and rights groups have condemned TikTok’s involvement, citing concerns over its alleged censorship of content related to China’s treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang.

Uyghur rights activists criticized the event, arguing that TikTok’s support contradicts the principles of justice upheld by the UK Muslim community. The World Uyghur Congress also raised concerns about TikTok’s alleged role in filtering content critical of the Chinese government.

MWNUK defended the partnership, stating that social media platforms like TikTok provide visibility for marginalized Muslim communities, emphasizing the importance of engagement in discussions on freedom of expression and discrimination.