CHINA: ARTIST DETAINED FOR ONE YEAR WITHOUT TRIAL

Dear Secretary Ma,

I am writing to express my grave concern for artist Gao Zhen (高兟), who has been detained at Sanhe City Detention Center on charges of ‘slandering China’s heroes and martyrs’ (侵害英雄烈士名譽榮譽罪) for almost one year without trial.

I fear that Gao Zhen’s case reflects the ongoing criminalization of freedom of artistic expression and creation using vague charges such as ‘slandering China’s heroes and martyrs’. Restricting forms of expression with the only interest of protecting the ‘honor’ or reputation of public officials, institutions, symbols, or flags exceeds what is allowed under international law.

My distress is heightened by concerns that Gao’s wife and young son have been banned from leaving the country, purportedly under the pretext of “national security,” though no formal charges have been filed or documentation provided to justify these measures. As a result, the 7-year-old boy has been unable to continue his education for a full school year.

I urge you to:

• Immediately and unconditionally release Gao Zhen;
• Pending his release, ensure that Gao’s right to communicate with his family is fully respected and protected, and he is not subject to torture or other ill-treatment;
• Stop harassing and threatening his family and allow them to leave the country freely and safely.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]