On the two-year anniversary of a landmark UN report, human rights groups and the United Nations are calling for urgent action on the document, which suggested that China might have committed crimes against humanity in Xinjiang.
The report, released on August 31, 2022, by former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, was issued just before the end of her four-year term. At that time, Yalkun Uluyol was hopeful about finding his father, who had disappeared in 2018.
However, Uluyol later learned that his father had been sentenced to 16 years in a Xinjiang prison, a development Uluyol believes is connected to his Uighur identity. Uighurs, a largely Muslim ethnic group, are reported by rights groups and the US government to be facing severe repression by Beijing.
Uluyol, now living in Istanbul, expressed his disappointment, saying, “I was very happy when the report was out. But now I feel like, yes, you released a report, but so what? My life has not gotten any better. On the contrary, it’s been worse.”
China has denied any abuses in Xinjiang and issued a 131-page response defending its actions. Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian asserted this week that China fully protects the rights of all ethnic groups.
Human rights advocates, including Uluyol, are frustrated with what they perceive as China’s failure to implement the report’s recommendations, such as the release of those arbitrarily detained in Xinjiang. They are urging UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk to increase pressure on China after prolonged discussions with Beijing.
Uluyol and other critics argue that mere engagement with China has been insufficient. Prominent rights advocate Kenneth Roth has labeled Turk’s approach as “timid.” The 2022 report highlighted the potential international crimes related to the arbitrary detention of Uighurs and other Muslims in Xinjiang.
Turk, who became high commissioner after the report’s release, has consistently supported the document and called for action by China. His office recently noted that “many problematic laws and policies remain in place” in Xinjiang and urged a comprehensive review by authorities.
UN Human Rights spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani emphasized the need for continued engagement to achieve progress. Supporters of Turk argue that his approach balances public criticism with private diplomacy, which may eventually lead to reforms. However, critics, including Maya Wang from Human Rights Watch, are calling for a detailed update on the situation in Xinjiang and a concrete action plan to hold those responsible accountable.
