China Accused of Harassing Critics Abroad Through Threats Against Family
-
Chinese authorities aggressively pursue critics abroad through harassment and threats against family members in China. Police have pressured overseas critics to reveal social media accounts and followers.
-
Critics say the tactics have backfired and made them more determined to speak out against the Chinese government. Some have gone public with their stories to "expose" the threats.
-
Tactics include exit bans preventing family members from leaving China, demanding critics delete social media accounts, and claiming critics damage China's reputation even if abroad.
-
Repression varies but can include stalking, surveillance, and extradition of dissidents back to China depending on location and relationship with Beijing. Uyghurs are especially vulnerable.
-
A few brave critics like Lyndon Li Shixiang and Kyle Ma have found solidarity by connecting with other Chinese dissidents in exile. But many suffer extreme isolation and threats even while abroad.