WASHINGTON, DC-- Today, the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party held a hearing titled, "CCP Transnational Repression: The Party's Effort to Silence and Coerce Critics Overseas." The event was live-streamed on the Select Committee's website and social media, allowing the public to witness the proceedings.
Chairman Mike Gallagher opened the hearing with his remarks, setting the stage for the discussion. He emphasized the importance of addressing the Chinese Communist Party's transnational repression tactics, which aim to silence and coerce critics outside of China. Chairman Gallagher stated, "It is crucial that we shed light on these abuses and work towards holding the CCP accountable for its actions."
The first witness to testify was Ms. Anna Kwok, the Executive Director of the Hong Kong Democracy Council. Ms. Kwok highlighted the deteriorating human rights situation in Hong Kong under the Chinese Communist Party's rule. She expressed her concerns about the erosion of freedom of speech, assembly, and the rule of law in the region. Ms. Kwok emphasized, "The international community must stand in solidarity with Hong Kong and take concrete actions to support its fight for democracy."
Following Ms. Kwok's testimony, Mr. Jinrui Zhang, a Law Student at Georgetown University Law Center, took the stand. Mr. Zhang shared his personal experiences and knowledge of the Chinese Communist Party's tactics of transnational repression. He spoke about the Party's efforts to monitor and intimidate Chinese students studying abroad, as well as its attempts to silence dissident voices beyond China's borders. Mr. Zhang urged the international community to recognize the gravity of the situation and take decisive action. He stated, "We cannot turn a blind eye to the CCP's abuses. It is time for the world to unite and hold them accountable."
The final witness to testify was Dr. Sophie Richardson, an Expert on Human Rights in China. Dr. Richardson provided a comprehensive analysis of the Chinese Communist Party's transnational repression strategies. She highlighted the Party's use of surveillance, harassment, and even kidnapping to target individuals critical of the regime. Dr. Richardson emphasized, "The CCP's actions not only violate human rights but also pose a threat to democratic values and principles worldwide."
The hearing shed light on the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to suppress dissent and control information beyond its borders. It underscored the need for international cooperation in addressing this issue and holding the CCP accountable for its actions. The testimonies of Ms. Anna Kwok, Mr. Jinrui Zhang, and Dr. Sophie Richardson provided valuable insights into the extent of the Party's transnational repression tactics.
As the hearing concluded, Chairman Gallagher expressed his gratitude to the witnesses for their testimonies, stating, "Your voices and expertise are crucial in raising awareness about the CCP's transnational repression. We must continue to stand up for human rights and democratic values."
The Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party's hearing on "CCP Transnational Repression: The Party's Effort to Silence and Coerce Critics Overseas" served as a platform for discussion and action. It highlighted the urgency of addressing the Chinese Communist Party's tactics and working towards safeguarding human rights and democratic principles globally.
To learn more, click on this link: https://selectcommitteeontheccp.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-gallaghers-opening-remarks-and-witness-testimony-0
