Yu was sentenced to three years in prison, while Xu received one year and nine months when the verdict was handed down in the city of Suzhou west of Shanghai on Tuesday this week. Both were found guilty of encouraging subversive activities against the state.
In a statement on Friday, the US State Department writes that the verdicts show that China is still trying to silence people who defend human rights.
The EU, Germany and France have also made statements asking China to release the couple.
In 2015, Yu strongly criticized the Chinese authorities after a number of Chinese human rights activists were arrested. Among other things, he wrote an open letter in which he asked that the Ministry of the Interior be investigated, and in which he accused the police of creating a “terrorist atmosphere” in the country.
He was arrested and served four years in prison before being released in 2022. During this time, his wife came out publicly to defend her husband.
In April last year, both Yu and Xu were arrested by the police while on their way to meet the EU delegation in Beijing. They were then brought to Suzhou, where they were sentenced this week.
According to Amnesty International, the mental health of the couple’s son has greatly deteriorated after the parents were arrested. He had just turned 18 when they were imprisoned.
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**Interview with Human Rights Advocate, Dr. Lin Zhao**
**Interviewer:** Dr. Zhao, thank you for joining us today. The recent sentencing of Yu and Xu for their human rights advocacy has drawn significant international criticism, including from the US and the EU. What are your thoughts on the implications of these verdicts for human rights in China?
**Dr. Zhao:** Thank you for having me. The sentences handed down to Yu and Xu underscore a troubling trend in China—a relentless crackdown on dissent and those who dare to speak out for human rights. This is not merely a case of two individuals being punished; it signals to the broader population that any form of advocacy or criticism of the state will be met with severe consequences.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. The international community has reacted strongly, but do you believe their responses will have any tangible effect on China’s policies regarding human rights?
**Dr. Zhao:** Historically, while international pressure has brought some attention to human rights issues, China’s government has shown a pattern of prioritizing state control over international opinion. However, sustained pressure and international solidarity can create a form of accountability that might make the Chinese government reconsider its methods.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the impact on the family, particularly their son, whose mental health has reportedly deteriorated. How significant is the psychological impact of such cases on the families involved?
**Dr. Zhao:** The psychological toll on families of political prisoners is profound. It extends beyond the immediate trauma of separation; it creates an ongoing atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Many families face societal stigma and can struggle with mental health themselves, as seen in the case of Yu and Xu’s son. This raises crucial questions about the broader social ramifications of such governmental actions.
**Interviewer:** Given the current climate, what can the global community do to effectively support individuals and families like Yu and Xu’s?
**Dr. Zhao:** Advocacy is vital. We need to amplify their voices and experiences and ensure they are not forgotten. This includes raising awareness through media, organizing protests, and applying pressure on governments to take a principled stand against human rights abuses in China. However, it’s also essential to promote mental health support for affected families, as they endure unique hardships.
**Interviewer:** As the global community rallies for change, what do you think will ultimately be the tipping point for more significant human rights reforms in China?
**Dr. Zhao:** That’s a complex question. Many factors could contribute—a growing internal dissent, sustained international pressure, or a shift in the economic landscape that makes repression more costly. But the most crucial element may be the courage of individuals like Yu and Xu, whose continued advocacy serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for many.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, do you think the international public’s awareness and concern are growing regarding China’s human rights situation?
**Dr. Zhao:** Yes, I believe awareness is increasing, especially among younger generations. Social media and greater access to information have empowered individuals to learn about these issues and advocate for change. This growing concern can translate into action, which is vital for pushing forward the narrative of human rights in China.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Zhao, for your insights. This brings up an important question for our readers: Considering the severe repercussions faced by advocates like Yu and Xu, do you believe that standing up for human rights in oppressive regimes is worth the personal risk involved? What are your thoughts?