UN Reports Ongoing Human Rights Violations Against Uyghurs in China

The United Nations has reiterated concerns over China’s treatment of Uyghurs and other ethnic minorities in Xinjiang, stating that “many problematic laws and policies remain in place” two years after a critical report highlighted potential crimes against humanity, Yahoo news reported yesterday.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk and his office have engaged with Chinese authorities on these pressing issues, urging a review of national security laws that disproportionately affect minorities.

Ravina Shamdasani, a spokesperson for the UN, emphasized the ongoing human rights violations, including the arbitrary detention of Uyghurs in what are termed “reeducation centers,” now evolving into permanent detention facilities. A recent report by Yale University’s Genocide Studies Program warns that China’s actions meet the criteria for genocide, with incarceration rates for Uyghurs drastically increasing. The report estimates that if current trends continue, the Uyghur population could face a cumulative 4.4 million years of imprisonment.

The UN has called for the immediate release of individuals arbitrarily detained and for investigations into allegations of torture and other human rights abuses. Despite these calls, the Chinese government maintains that it is committed to human rights, arguing that Xinjiang enjoys stability and prosperity.

In light of these developments, over a dozen Uyghur rights organizations are urging the UN Human Rights Council to take urgent action during its upcoming session. They demand accountability for the reported atrocities and invite Turk to brief the council on the situation. The organizations argue that the scale of abuses in Xinjiang disqualifies China from serving on the UN Human Rights Council, insisting that the international community must act to prevent further violations.