China Faces Global Scrutiny Over Human Rights Record at UN Review

At a UN-backed review, Western countries pressure China to enhance freedom of expression, protect minorities, and repeal Hong Kongs controversial national security law.

In a regular UN-backed review of China's human rights record, Western countries urged Beijing to enhance freedom of expression, protect ethnic minorities, and repeal Hong Kong's national security law, which troubles independent activists. China's ambassador in Geneva, Chen Xu, led a delegation from various ministries for the "universal periodic review" conducted under the UN Human Rights Council. He emphasized China's progress in poverty eradication, democratic elections, and religious freedom.

Overwhelming Participation and Time Constraints

An unprecedented number of over 160 countries registered to participate in the discussion, including both critics and allies of Beijing. This resulted in a maximum speaking time of 45 seconds per country, leading to a rapid exchange of views. China's delegation was allocated 70 minutes to present its case.

Recommendations and Concerns from Western Countries

Despite the review process encouraging constructive recommendations, several leading Western countries offered firm advice to China. Canada urged an end to enforced disappearances targeting human rights defenders, ethnic minorities, and Falun Gong practitioners. The Czech Republic called for the cessation of criminalizing religious and peaceful civil expression, cross-border kidnappings, and intimidating Chinese citizens abroad. Slovenia recommended a moratorium on the death penalty, while the United Kingdom sought a halt to the prosecution of Jimmy Lai and an end to forced repatriations of North Koreans.

Spotlight on Minority Rights and Allegations of Genocide

Japan highlighted the need for better protection of minority rights in Tibet and Xinjiang. The United States expressed concerns about the ongoing genocide and crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and transnational repression. However, no UN bodies have confirmed these allegations.

Diverse Perspectives and Commendations

The hearing provided a comprehensive examination of China's human rights situation. Bolivia commended China's efforts in reducing deforestation, Burundi urged improvements in healthcare and housing in central regions and Hong Kong and Macao, and Iran praised China's national action plan for human rights. Russia advised China to enhance the understanding and use of standard spoken and written Chinese in Xinjiang.

Praise and Criticism from Developing Countries and Human Rights Groups

Many developing countries lauded China's policies on poverty reduction and economic development while offering suggestions for improvement. South Africa called for strengthening the anti-domestic violence law, while Human Rights Watch criticized countries for praising China's rights record or remaining silent despite well-documented grave crimes.

The "universal periodic review" subjects all UN member states to scrutiny by other countries every five years. The aim is to provide constructive criticism and produce a written report with recommendations. China's last review in 2018 saw concerns raised about the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang. Activists from various groups held demonstrations outside the UN Geneva compound during the discussion, while representatives from non-governmental organizations attended the session or observed from a designated "spillover room."