The “China Human Rights” (HRIC), headquartered in the United States, strongly condemned the sanctions imposed by the Chinese authorities on the organization as blatant retaliation for their efforts to combat forced labor. Being the only human rights organization on China’s countermeasure list, “China Human Rights” views this sanction as an “honour” and vows not to back down, continuing to defend universal rights and dignity.
On August 5, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce invoked the “Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law” and announced countermeasures against six U.S. entities suspected of assisting U.S. sanctions on Xinjiang. Previously, the U.S. listed 43 Chinese companies on the Entity List in late July under the “Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act” (UFLPA).
Facing the Chinese sanctions, “China Human Rights” issued a statement stating that this move by Beijing is a blatant act of retaliation, attempting to intimidate and silence organizations advocating for universal human rights and corporate responsibility.
However, “China Human Rights” expressed that despite the surprise of finding themselves listed alongside unfamiliar organizations, they still consider this designation as an “honour.” The statement emphasized that this indicates the organization’s efforts have had an impact, and that the Chinese authorities recognize the importance of independent human rights advocacy. “China Human Rights” pointed out that ironically, for many within China’s firewall, this sanction announcement may be their first exposure to the organization.
Founded by overseas Chinese students and scientists in March 1989, “China Human Rights” has been operating for 37 years. The organization, in its statement, reviewed its history and highlighted its ongoing commitment to promote internationally recognized human rights standards and rule of law principles in China to support and strengthen Chinese civil society. They have stood in solidarity with the “Tiananmen Mothers” and numerous victims of political persecution, documenting human rights violations and advocating for victims.
Finally, “China Human Rights” emphasized that any sanctions imposed by the Chinese government will not deter them from fulfilling their mission, but rather underline the importance of their work. The organization pledged to continue standing with human rights defenders, supporting victims of persecution, and advocating for the establishment of a China where everyone’s rights and dignity are respected.