Chinese Authorities Allegedly Threaten Chinese Nationals in Japan
Chinese authorities are reportedly intimidating Chinese nationals living in Japan who criticize the Chinese government. This includes individuals from East Turkistan, Tibet, and Inner Mongolia. These individuals are pressured not to organize protests or participate in politically sensitive events. Human Rights Watch (HRW) claims that these people are also forced to provide information about others in Japan.
Human Rights Watch Statement
Teppei Kasai, an Asia program officer at HRW, stated, “Chinese authorities appear to have few scruples about silencing people from China living in Japan who criticize Beijing’s abuses. The Japanese government should make clear to Beijing it won’t tolerate the long arm of China’s transnational repression in Japan.”
Interviews and Evidence
Between June and August 2024, HRW interviewed 25 individuals from Hong Kong, Mainland China, East Turkistan, Tibet, and Inner Mongolia living in Japan. These individuals were involved in peaceful activities considered threatening to China’s one-party rule. Activities included raising awareness about crimes in Xinjiang, promoting Tibetan culture, and discussing books by Inner Mongolian activists.
Interviewees reported being contacted by Chinese police or their relatives back home, pressuring them to stop their activities. Evidence such as WeChat messages, video call recordings, and CCTV footage supported their claims. Some individuals ceased their activities due to fear of retaliation.
Specific Incidents
Uyghur communities in Japan reported being contacted by Chinese authorities through relatives in East Turkistan. They were pressured to stop anti-government activities or share information about Japan’s Uyghur community. A Tibetan promoting culture in Japan was told to return to Tibet to renew their passport. A Taiwanese individual involved in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy activism received invitations from the Chinese embassy, which they declined due to fear of detention.
Concerns and Reactions
Chinese authorities have reportedly violated the rights of returning Chinese nationals. In 2023, a Hong Kong woman was arrested for pro-democracy comments made while in Japan. Many individuals did not seek help from Japanese police, fearing reprisals or worsening their situation.
Doubts Revealed
Chinese Authorities -: Chinese authorities refer to the government officials and agencies in China who are responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining order in the country.
Chinese Nationals -: Chinese nationals are people who are citizens of China, meaning they were born there or have legal citizenship.
East Turkistan -: East Turkistan is a region in China, also known as Xinjiang, where many Uyghur people live. There have been reports of human rights issues in this area.
Tibet -: Tibet is a region in China known for its unique culture and history. It has been a subject of political tension due to its desire for more autonomy from China.
Inner Mongolia -: Inner Mongolia is an autonomous region in China, home to many ethnic Mongolians. It has its own cultural identity within China.
Human Rights Watch -: Human Rights Watch is an international organization that investigates and reports on human rights abuses around the world. They work to protect people’s rights and freedoms.
Intimidation Tactics -: Intimidation tactics are actions taken to scare or threaten someone into doing or not doing something. This can include making threats or using pressure to influence behavior.
Retaliation -: Retaliation means taking revenge or punishing someone for their actions. In this context, it refers to the fear of being punished for criticizing the Chinese government.