By Karen Diep
Impunity Watch Reporter, Asia
BEIJING, China – Yesterday, the UN chief for human rights, Navi Pillay, urged China to permit international respondents to evaluate the state of Tibetan regions experiencing protests against Chinese rule. Thus far, there have been 12 outstanding requests for UN human rights officials to visit China.
“Deep underlying issues need to be addressed, and I call on the Government to seriously consider the recommendations made to it by various international human rights bodies, as well as to avail itself of the expert advice being offered by the UN’s independent experts on human rights,” said Ms. Pillay.
According to BBC, up to 60 Tibetans have set themselves on fire. On October 27th, the Chinese government offered a $32,000 reward for information regarding the chain of self-immolation. Moreover, an additional $7,700 may be given to those who are aware of such planned protest.
A few weeks go, authorities allegedly beat a 17-year-old girl for distributing flyers demanding Tibet’s freedom and the return of the Dalai Lama. The young girl was subsequently sentenced to three years in prison.
Moreover, authorities have arrested and sentenced those writing essays, producing films or distributing photos to four to seven years in prison. Furthermore, there has been apprehension regarding fair trials and the torture of captives.
Ms. Pillay does not believe heavy security will promote stability. “I have had several exchanges with the Chinese government on these issues. But more needs to be done to protect human rights and prevent violations,” shared Ms. Pillay.
According to Voice of America, High Commissioner Rupert Colville has been the spokesman for Ms. Pillay and believes that the Chinese government should release those previously detained for exercising their freedom of expression.
“She is also appealing to Tibetans to refrain from resorting to extreme forms of protest, such as self-immolation, and urging community and religious leaders to use their influence to help stop this tragic loss of life,” shared Mr. Colville. “She fully recognizes Tibetans’ intense sense of frustration and despair, which has led them to resort to such extreme means, but there are other ways to make those feelings clear. It is important that the government also recognizes this, and permits Tibetans to express their feelings without fear of retribution.”
Ms. Pillay’s statements were made days before Chinese leaders meet for the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
For further information, please see:
Hindustan Times – UN urges China to allow monitors in Tibet – 3 Nov. 2012
BBC – UN official urges China to address issues in Tibet – 2 Nov. 2012
Voice of America – UN Rights Chief Urges China to Address Tibetans’ Grievances – 02 Nov. 2012
