WUC Exposes Uyghur Forced Labor at UN Amid China’s Silencing Attempts

During a recent advocacy week at the United Nations, representatives from the World Uyghur Congress (WUC) highlighted the issue of Uyghur forced labor amid attempts by China to silence them. The event included participation in the 14th UN Forum on Business and Human Rights and the 18th UN Forum on Minority Issues.

Key Events at the UN

The WUC collaborated with several organizations, such as the Uyghur Centre for Democracy and Human Rights (UZDM) and the Campaign for Uyghurs, to draw attention to the plight of the Uyghur people. Over the course of the forums, Uyghur advocates raised significant concerns regarding state-imposed forced labor and the need for heightened human rights protections.

• Date of the Forums: November 27 to December 2
• WUC Vice President: Zumretay Arkin
• Key Issues Addressed:
  • State-imposed forced labor
  • Atrocity crimes
  • Transnational repression
  • Forced migration
  • Accountability for human rights abuses

Chinese Interference

Throughout the sessions, representatives from the Chinese mission invoked “points of order” in an attempt to discredit the Uyghur speakers. These interruptions aimed to silence their advocacy efforts, particularly during discussions on human rights violations.

Reactions from WUC Leaders

Turgunjan Alawdun, President of the WUC, remarked, “Despite the obstacles, Uyghur voices were acknowledged.” He emphasized that discussing forced labor is crucial for informing businesses and governments about the realities faced by the Uyghur community.

Highlighting Minority Rights

The 18th UN Forum on Minority Issues emphasized the importance of including minority perspectives in society. UN officials, including the High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, underscored the necessity of recognizing unrepresented communities.

Panels and Discussions

On November 28, the WUC hosted a side event titled “Uyghur Cultural Survival and the Role of Unrepresented Communities in Building Peaceful Societies.” This panel featured key speakers from various organizations, emphasizing the urgency of integrating unrepresented communities in global decision-making processes.

• Panel Experts Included:
  • Turgunjan Alawdun (WUC President)
  • Dolkun Isa (UZDM President)
  • Mercè Monje (UNPO Secretary General)
  • Claire Thomas (MRG Executive Director)

Call to Action

The WUC has urged the international community to take immediate action against the ongoing genocide faced by the Uyghurs. They emphasized that continued silence and procedural barriers must not overshadow the fundamental rights of this oppressed population.

As the situation evolves, it remains critical to maintain a focus on Uyghur forced labor and its implications for human rights at global forums.