Human Rights Watch Demands Release of Peng Lifa
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is calling for the immediate release of Peng Lifa, known as the ‘Bridge Man,’ who protested against Chinese President Xi Jinping’s ‘Zero-Covid’ policy. Two years ago, Peng displayed banners on Beijing’s Sitong Bridge, demanding freedom and reform. Despite his arrest, his message continues to inspire many. HRW’s Maya Wang highlighted the importance of international pressure for Peng’s release.
The Protest on Sitong Bridge
On October 13, 2022, Peng Lifa, dressed as a construction worker, unfurled banners on Sitong Bridge in Beijing. The banners called for food, freedom, dignity, reform, and the right to vote, while criticizing Xi Jinping. Peng was quickly arrested and has not been seen since.
Impact and International Response
Peng’s protest was a rare act of defiance in China, where public dissent is closely monitored. His messages spread widely despite censorship, inspiring protests across China against the Zero-Covid measures. HRW emphasizes the need for international governments to pressure China for Peng’s release.
Continued Influence
In July 2024, activist Fang Yirong, inspired by Peng, protested similarly in Hunan province. Fang was arrested, and his condition is unknown. HRW urges global attention to Peng’s case, advocating for his freedom and highlighting the ongoing struggle for democracy in China.
Doubts Revealed
Human Rights Watch -: Human Rights Watch is an international organization that works to protect and promote human rights around the world. They investigate and report on abuses happening in different countries.
Peng Lifa -: Peng Lifa is a person who became known as the ‘Bridge Man’ for his protest against the Chinese government’s policies. He displayed banners on a bridge in Beijing to express his disagreement with the government’s actions.
Bridge Man -: The ‘Bridge Man’ is a nickname given to Peng Lifa because he protested on a bridge in Beijing. This act of protest made him famous as he stood up against the government.
Xi Jinping -: Xi Jinping is the current leader of China. He is the President and has a lot of power in the Chinese government.
Zero-Covid policy -: The ‘Zero-Covid’ policy was a strict approach by the Chinese government to completely eliminate COVID-19 cases. It involved strict lockdowns and restrictions to stop the spread of the virus.
Sitong Bridge -: Sitong Bridge is a bridge located in Beijing, the capital city of China. It became famous because Peng Lifa used it as a place to protest against the government.
Maya Wang -: Maya Wang is a person who works for Human Rights Watch. She is involved in advocating for human rights and is calling for international support to help release Peng Lifa.
International pressure -: International pressure means that people and governments from different countries are urging China to release Peng Lifa. It involves using influence and persuasion to encourage China to change its actions.
Democracy -: Democracy is a system of government where people have the power to choose their leaders and make decisions through voting. It allows for freedom and equal rights for all citizens.
