Uighurs in Xinjiang: A General Assessment of the Roots of Unrest

Chinese governmental repression in Xinjiang against the Uighur minzu, or ethnic group, constitutes a significant infringement on human rights. The atmosphere of repression in Xinjiang is perhaps unmatched even by that of Tibet, and it is virtually the only region in China where execution of political prisoners is still common. Uighurs are subject to severe censorship, arbitrary arrest and the denial of due process, torture and inhumane treatment, and punishment disproportionate to their crimes. The Chinese government justifies its actions as measures taken to maintain stability in the face of terrorist activity. Though the capability of Uighur terrorist groups is uncertain, it is clear that China has extended its “anti-terrorist” measures to combat any form of dissent by Uighurs and has instituted what amounts to the criminalization of the Uighur culture. State repression in Xinjiang stems from the ethnic tensions in the region, which play on China’s fear of losing control of that crucial territory. Resolving these tensions and ameliorating China’s fears will improve the human rights situation and lessen Chinese repression.