Background Information
Uighurs are a Turkic-speaking Muslim ethnic group residing in Central and East Asia, primarily in northwest China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region. Uighurs have faced discriminatory policies and restrictions on freedom of religion, expression, and mobility within China, as the Chinese government regards them to be a threat to stability and security in the region. This article explores the difficulties Uighur people experience when travelling throughout China.
Government Regulations
The Chinese government has implemented measures to limit freedom of movement among Uighurs, including restrictions on travel permits. In 2017, the Chinese government implemented a ‘social credit’ system that prevents people with a lower state-issued ‘score’ from flying or taking the train. Uighurs are disproportionately affected by this system and have found it difficult to obtain the necessary travel documents.
Uighurs have faced increased restrictions since 2018, when Chinese authorities launched an intensified ‘strike hard’ policy in response to increased separatist activities in Xinjiang Province. The Chinese have implemented a policy of ‘targeted surveillance’, where they track the movements of Uighurs outside of the region. Uighurs are also frequently subjected to arbitrary checks and searches, and can be arrested and detained without charge or trial.
Travel Restriction Experiences
Uighur individuals and families have reported delays in obtaining travel permits, as well as being refused permission to travel in the first place. Uighurs travelling domestically are often stopped at airports or train stations and prevented from travelling, with no explanation given. Uighur travelers are also subjected to additional security checks, and are frequently asked to provide personal information such as immigration documents. People of Uighur descent are often unable to leave the country due to their ethnicity.
Uighurs travelling internationally have experienced similar treatment. Uighur refugees have reported difficulty in obtaining passports, which can take over a year to be issued, and are only valid for a limited time. Uighurs are also routinely denied approval for visas to travel abroad, or are given visas with a limited validity period.
Analysis by Experts
Human rights experts have expressed concern about the Chinese government’s discrimination against Uighurs. They have argued that the ‘targeted surveillance’ system constitutes a violation of their right to freedom of movement and is a form of collective punishment. Furthermore, the restrictions imposed on Uighurs ‘lack clarity and show an alarming lack of transparency’, according to Human Rights Watch.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has called for the Chinese government to end their ‘systematic policy’ of targeting Uighur people, and ensure that their rights to freedom of expression and movement are respected. The Chinese government has maintained that their policy is necessary to prevent terrorism, though many experts have argued that their actions are disproportionate and grossly violate human rights.
International Reactions
The issue of Uighurs travelling in China has attracted significant international attention, with countries around the world calling for the Chinese government to uphold the rights of Uighurs. International human rights organisations and NGOs have also criticised the travel restrictions, and have demanded an end to the discriminatory policies.
The US State Department issued a statement in 2020 condemning the Chinese government’s treatment of Uighurs and other ethnic minorities, and called for increased international attention and scrutiny of the situation. The European Union and various governments, including the UK, Australia, and Canada, have all raised their concerns and urged the Chinese government to end their abusive policies.
Impact on Uighurs
Uighurs face significant obstacles when travelling in China, which has severe implications for their economic, social, and cultural life. The difficulties associated with obtaining travel documents and visas have made it difficult for Uighurs to access employment, education, and medical treatment outside of their region. Furthermore, the restrictions have caused considerable social upheaval, as it has become increasingly difficult for Uighurs to keep in contact with family and friends outside of the region.
These difficulties have discouraged Uighurs from travelling, leading to increased feelings of isolation and alienation. Uighurs have also experienced increased levels of anxiety and stress due to the ‘targeted surveillance’ system, which has made them feel as if they are constantly under threat.
Effective Measures
To address the issue of Uighurs travelling throughout China, the international community has urged the Chinese government to repeal restrictions on freedom of movement. Governments around the world should put pressure on the Chinese government to end their discriminatory policies towards Uighurs, and to protect their human rights.
It is also important that China’s travel restrictions are more clearly defined, so that Uighurs know what is required for them to travel domestically or abroad. Measures must also be taken to ensure that Uighurs are not subjected to arbitrary searches or detentions when travelling.
Awareness and Action
It is also essential to increase public awareness and understanding of the situation. Individuals and organisations should strive to raise awareness of the plight of Uighurs, and to encourage governments to take meaningful action. Human rights organisations should continue to monitor the situation and hold the Chinese government accountable for any violations of their rights.
It is also important for people to show solidarity with Uighurs, and to speak out against discriminatory policies and practices. People should take steps to support organisations and initiatives that are committed to defending the rights of Uighurs, and to work to ensure that their voices are heard.
