New York, February 6, 2025 – Human Rights Watch (HRW) has condemned China’s travel restrictions on Uyghurs, asserting that the policies violate international human rights laws. The measures, including extensive surveillance of Uyghur movements both domestically and abroad, are seen as part of China’s broader campaign to suppress Uyghur identity. HRW highlights how the travel restrictions severely hinder Uyghurs from reuniting with family members or freely moving, isolating them and reinforcing China’s control in Xinjiang.
The organization also points to the harsh penalties faced by those who violate these restrictions, including detentions, forced disappearances, and the dismantling of Uyghur communities. HRW argues that these actions infringe on fundamental human rights, such as freedom of movement and family life, and calls for stronger international pressure on China to end these discriminatory policies.
