Roundtable: "Current Conditions for Human Rights Defenders and Lawyers in China"

The Congressional-Executive Commission on China announces a roundtable discussion hosted by Senator Sherrod Brown, Cochairman on Current Conditions for Human Rights Defenders and Lawyers in China, and
Implications for U.S. Policy.

In recent months, Chinese officials reportedly have conducted one of the harshest crackdowns in years against human rights lawyers, civic activists, and other advocates. Those targeted have advocated on behalf of specific groups and issues, such as victims of earthquakes, diseases, and tainted food, child laborers, persecuted religious groups, and political dissidents. Targeted individuals also have advocated for broader freedoms and democracy. The Internet and social media have played a prominent role in their advocacy. During the crackdown, Chinese officials reportedly have abused the law in some cases, "disappearing" some citizens outside the legal process. This roundtable will examine the implications of this crackdown on the advocacy work of those affected and the broader implications for the rule of law, the Chinese legal profession, and for U.S. policy.

Panelists:

Elisabeth Wickeri, Executive Director and Adjunct Professor of Law, Leitner Center for International Law and Justice, Fordham Law School; Member, Committee to Support Chinese Lawyers

Margaret K. Lewis, Associate Professor of Law, Seton Hall Law School

Li Xiaorong, Independent Scholar

Sarah Cook, Asia Research Analyst and Assistant Editor, Freedom on the Net, Freedom House