Torture and detention without trial
1 November 2008, 07:36AM
Imagine being locked away for years, yet never being charged or speaking to a lawyer.
Imagine that while you are locked up the officials burn you with cigarettes, give you electric shocks, deprive you of sleep and leave you shackled for hours in excruciatingly painful positions.
It may sound unimaginable, but for the people of China this is a reality.
Forced labour camps
The authorities call these camps ‘Re-education Through Labour’ facilities – and they’ve sent hundreds of thousands of people to them.
Detainees include critics of the Government and followers of banned beliefs. They are not charged or tried. They have no access to their family. They have no access to a lawyer and no right of appeal.
Yet they can be detained for up to four years.
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Clamping down
Beijing’s authorities are using the Olympic Games as an excuse to increase the use of forced labour camps.
Vagrants, beggars, unlicensed taxi drivers and drug users have all been detained – anyone who doesn’t present the ‘clean’ image the Chinese authorities want us to see.
Torture is widespread
Torture is known to have taken place in forced labour camps, police stations, prisons, and even courtrooms.
Methods include electric shocks, suspension by the arms, kicking and beating. People detained for their religious beliefs, political views or human rights activities are especially at risk.
Change in China is possible – But we need you
Amnesty International is the most influential human rights organisation in the world. That influence comes down to our supporters.
We are campaigning for an end to torture and forced labour camps. You can add your support by becoming a Human Rights Defender.
Give a regular gift of $25 per month and help end these inhuman practices once and for all.
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