Student’s alleged jailing in China over Australian pro-democracy protests sparks calls for inquiry
Australia's human rights commissioner has called for a parliamentary inquiry into transnational repression after a University of Sydney student was allegedly jailed in China for participating in pro-democracy protests in Australia. The case has raised concerns among Chinese international students about their safety and freedom of expression, both in Australia and upon returning home. Commissioner Lorraine Finlay emphasized the need to protect democratic freedoms and ensure individuals are not punished abroad for lawful activities conducted in Australia.
- ▪A University of Sydney student went missing in December 2024 after returning to China and was allegedly sentenced to six years in prison for joining pro-democracy protests in Australia.
- ▪Human rights commissioner Lorraine Finlay urged the Albanese government to launch a dedicated parliamentary inquiry into transnational repression.
- ▪The student was reportedly charged with secession by Chinese authorities for participating in protests including those in solidarity with China's ethnic minorities.
- ▪Chinese international students in Australia have expressed heightened concerns for their safety when engaging in political activities on Australian soil.
- ▪Commissioner Finlay stated that no one should face punishment abroad for exercising their lawful rights to free expression and peaceful protest in Australia.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
A student sits next to the quadrangle at the University of Sydney. Australia’s human rights commissioner has called on the Albanese government to introduce a dedicated parliamentary inquiry into transnational repression after reports a student was allegedly jailed in China for joining protests in Sydney. Photograph: Paul Miller/AAPView image in fullscreenA student sits next to the quadrangle at the University of Sydney. Australia’s human rights commissioner has called on the Albanese government to introduce a dedicated parliamentary inquiry into transnational repression after reports a student was allegedly jailed in China for joining protests in Sydney.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — World
