The U.S., Germany, and France have urged for the release of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng and his wife Xu Yan, sentenced in China for alleged subversion. Yu received three years, while Xu was given one year and nine months. Their case highlights ongoing human rights abuses in China and the impact on their family, particularly their son who faces mental health challenges after their arrest.
In a unified stance, the United States, Germany, and France have called for the immediate release of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng and his wife, Xu Yan, both recently sentenced in China for alleged subversion. A Suzhou court handed Yu a three-year detention sentence while Xu received one year and nine months. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned these sentences, highlighting China’s ongoing efforts to suppress advocates for human rights.
The appeal for Yu and Xu’s release comes amidst a troubling trend in China where human rights defenders are increasingly silenced. Yu, known for his courageous defense of fellow human rights lawyers, previously faced a four-year sentence for similar charges after drawing attention to police abuses. Their arrest occurred in April while on their way to meet the European Union delegation, raising concerns about their treatment and the judicial process in China.
The calls from international powers underscore the increasing anxiety regarding human rights in China. Yu and Xu’s case exemplifies broader issues of suppression affecting activists and their families, with their son reportedly struggling with mental health due to the distress caused by their arrest. As global voices rise in support, the urgency for accountability and justice remains paramount in discussions surrounding China’s human rights record.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
