The crackdown on human rights lawyers in China continues, with the legal environment deteriorating significantly since the pandemic. Ren Quanniu compares the current state of rule of law regarding human rights to the Cultural Revolution era, marked by widespread repression and lack of judicial integrity. The 709 incident targeted around 300 rights defenders, resulting in disbarments, surveillance, and harassment. Although the early 2000s saw some legal successes for defense lawyers, the current climate makes effective rights advocacy extremely challenging. Many lawyers remain committed to their work despite the risks involved.
Ren Quanniu, a disbarred human rights lawyer, stated that the current rule of law concerning human rights in China has deteriorated to a level reminiscent of the Cultural Revolution. The legal environment has regressed, particularly after the pandemic, limiting the possibility of rights defence work significantly. The crackdown on human rights lawyers since the 709 incident highlights an ongoing campaign against advocates for civil society, with about 300 individuals targeted, facing harassment, surveillance, and disbarment as measures to suppress dissent. Jiang Tianyong reflected on the impact of defenders' work, acknowledging that while they may not claim success, their efforts made it more challenging for authorities to persecute specific groups.
During the Cultural Revolution initiated by Mao Zedong, judicial systems were attacked and essentially dismantled, echoing the current state of human rights law in China. The situation has worsened notably after the pandemic, with human rights lawyers and activists facing increased repression. This reflects a significant regression in China's commitment to the rule of law, especially concerning the safeguarding of basic human rights. The targeted campaign against rights lawyers has drawn international attention and condemnation for undermining civil society.
Collection
[
|
...
]