This month marks the one-year anniversary of the detention of prominent Chinese defense attorney Pu Zhiqiang. Chinese authorities have held Pu Zhiqiang without trial since he was detained May 6, 2014, for participating in a meeting to peacefully mark the 25th anniversary of the violent suppression of demonstrations in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Pu Zhiqiang is a courageous defense attorney recognized around the world for his tireless work in support of the rule of law in China.
On May 6, the State Department issued a statement noting “the United States remains deeply concerned that China continues to hold Pu Zhiqiang on allegations of “provoking disturbances,” “inciting ethnic hatred,” “separatism,” and “illegally obtaining personal information.”
The United States is also troubled by reports that Pu has not enjoyed prompt access to counsel and other procedural safeguards and has been subjected to harsh conditions and denied access to proper medical treatment.
In its May 6 statement, the State Department reiterated its call on China to release and remove all restrictions on Pu Zhiqiang, and to respect his rights in accordance with China’s international human rights commitments.