Recommendation 14

HM Government Not Addressed

Having evaluated the evidence, on 22 March, under the UK’s Global Human Rights sanctions regime, the UK imposed asset freezes and travel bans against those responsible for gross human rights violations in Xinjiang. These measures were taken alongside the US, Canada and the EU, sending a clear message that the international community is united in its condemnation of China’s human rights violations in Xinjiang and the need for Beijing to end its discriminatory and oppressive practices against the Uyghurs. These designations send an unequivocal message that those responsible for serious human rights violations in China will face consequences. Alongside four senior officials, the Government held to account the Public Security Bureau of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. This organisation is responsible for enforcing repressive security polices across many areas of Xinjiang. This sanctions regime is designed to address human rights violations or abuses in a targeted manner, designating individuals and entities that have been involved in such human rights violations or abuses. This is a ‘smart’ tool, carefully targeted to achieve its goals, while minimising potentially negative wider impacts. Sanctions are just one tool at HMG’s disposal. On 12 January, the Foreign Secretary also announced a review into export controls as they apply to the situation in Xinjiang, to ensure we are doing all we can to prevent the export of goods that may contribute to human rights violations in the region. The UK will continue to work closely with our partners in holding China to account for the egregious human rights situation in Xinjiang.