Renowned Chinese human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng, hailed as the “conscience of China,” has been missing for over eight years. On Saturday, April 4th, a large statue unveiling ceremony for Gao Zhisheng was held at the Freedom Sculpture Park in Southern California. A representative from Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) delivered a speech and read a statement demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Gao Zhisheng by the Chinese authorities. The following is the full statement.
“Gao Zhisheng is one of the most respected human rights lawyers in China. In 2001, the Chinese Ministry of Justice awarded him the title of ‘Top Ten Lawyers in the Country’ for his pro bono legal services in public interest cases. Despite this, due to his work as a lawyer, including defending human rights activists and handling other politically sensitive cases, Gao Zhisheng has been subjected to illegal house arrest, detention, torture, and even enforced disappearance. During his detention in the early 2000s, Amnesty International designated him as a prisoner of conscience.
“In 2017, Gao Zhisheng suddenly disappeared without a trace. It was later revealed that he was held in secret detention completely cut off from the outside world. The Chinese authorities have refused to provide any information to his family and lawyers regarding his whereabouts, condition, or reasons for his detention. Gao Zhisheng’s ordeal reflects a common pattern: the Chinese authorities frequently crackdown on and arrest those who dare to speak out or express dissent.
“Gao Zhisheng is being held solely for exercising his right to freedom of speech. The Chinese authorities must immediately and unconditionally release him. Furthermore, they should disclose Gao Zhisheng’s whereabouts without delay, allow him unrestricted contact with family and a lawyer of his choice, and ensure he receives necessary medical care.
“Gao Zhisheng’s friend and fellow human rights lawyer Teng Biao stated: ‘Gao Zhisheng is not just one of the bravest lawyers in China, but undoubtedly the bravest.’ Amnesty International praises Gao Zhisheng’s courage and stands in solidarity with him. We all must continue to speak out for Gao Zhisheng until he regains his freedom and reunites with his family.”