Uyghur Congress pushes EU to act on China

Munich

The World Uyghur Congress (WUC) is increasing its efforts in Europe to draw attention to the human rights crisis facing Uyghurs in China. Ahead of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, WUC Vice President Zumretay Arkin led a visit to Brussels to meet with European lawmakers and officials.

In a video shared on social media, Arkin explained the purpose of the visit. "We are here to bring the voice of the Uyghur people to the European Parliament and raise awareness about the Uyghur genocide," she said.

The advocacy meetings focused on serious issues like arbitrary detention, forced labour, sterilisation, and enforced disappearances. WUC representatives also highlighted how Chinese policies are affecting women, children, and families in East Turkestan.

During a recent conference in the European Parliament, Arkin spoke alongside Tibetan activists. They discussed the environmental damage caused by China's large infrastructure projects, such as hydroelectric dams that are harming the Tibetan Plateau. Arkin warned that similar “eco-side” destruction is happening in East Turkestan.

She stressed the need for solidarity among oppressed groups and said Uyghur and Tibetan communities are working together to build a stronger movement.

The WUC aims to bring global attention to what they describe as crimes against humanity. Uyghurs face mass surveillance, forced cultural assimilation, and detention in re-education camps. Religious practices are heavily restricted, and there are credible reports of forced sterilisation.

The WUC’s campaign in Brussels is part of wider efforts to encourage stronger action from the EU and other global powers to stop the human rights abuses in China’s Xinjiang region.