Author: Zhao Yantao Editor: Lü Cong
We call for a stern condemnation of the transnational repression that the Chinese Communist Party carries out against overseas democracy activists!
If a regime truly had the support of the people, why would it be so afraid of the people raising different voices? Why would it refuse to leave even its critics far overseas in peace?
The CCP not only suppresses dissidents at home; it has also been widely accused of using various means to collect the personal information of overseas democracy activists, monitor their political activities, and even, through threats, harassment, and pressure, make their family members back in China live in fear and under duress.
What is even more outrageous is that the risk of transnational repression may extend into the United States and other democratic countries. If anyone engages in espionage, secret surveillance, or intimidation against overseas democracy activists and their families, this is not only a violation of individual rights; it is also a grave challenge to the sovereignty, the rule of law, and the civil liberties of the country in which they live.
Political views are not a crime; criticizing the government is not a crime; striving for democracy and freedom is all the less a crime!
If a regime must maintain its rule by intimidating family members, surveilling dissidents, and suppressing voices overseas, then what it exposes is precisely its deep fear of free thought and democratic values.
Here, I call on the relevant bodies of the United Nations, the government of the United States, and the governments of other democratic countries to take resolute action!
First, comprehensively investigate cases of transnational repression supported by credible evidence, and hold those responsible to account.
Second, strengthen the protection of overseas democracy activists and their families, and establish effective mechanisms for reporting, investigation, and safety assistance.
Third, against personnel found through investigation to have taken part in transnational repression, impose, in accordance with the law, visa restrictions, asset freezes, and other appropriate targeted sanctions, and issue a stern warning to the countries concerned.
We must never allow any foreign regime to bring fear into the free world, to let surveillance take the place of freedom, or to let threats take the place of the rule of law!
The Chinese people have the right to pursue democracy; overseas democracy activists have the right to speak out freely; and no one's family members should ever become bargaining chips in political persecution!
Oppose transnational repression! Defend freedom of speech! Defend democracy and human rights!
