Help Keep the Pressure On to Free Dhondup Wangchen!

Dhondup Wangchen, a Tibetan filmmaker, has been charged with "inciting separatism." His trial could start any day in Siling in eastern Tibet (Chinese: Xining, Qinghai Province). His lawyer has been barred from representing him, casting serious doubt over the fairness of the trial. Dhondup Wangchen has been tortured while in detention and is in very poor health.

Dhondup Wangchen was detained in March 2008 for filming interviews with Tibetans about their lives under Chinese occupation and making a bold documentary, Leaving Fear Behind. He is being persecuted for exercising his basic right to freedom of expression.

Please send an urgent letter to Qiang Wei, Secretary of the CPC Qinghai Provincial Committee, calling for Dhondup Wangchen's immediate release. Your letter will also be copied to Chinese consulates and embassies worldwide.

Tell me more

Subject:

Dear [ Decision Maker ],

(Edit Letter Below)

I am outraged to learn that Dhondup Wangchen, a Tibetan filmmaker, has been charged with "inciting separatism," a crime which carries a severe prison sentence under Chinese law. I understand that his trial could take place as early as August 1st in Siling in eastern Tibet (Chinese: Xining, Qinghai Province).

Dhondup Wangchen was detained in March 2008 for documenting the views of ordinary Tibetans in the lead up to the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He is being persecuted solely for exercising his basic right to freedom of expression.

Dhondup Wangchen has been beaten and tortured whilst in detention and is reported to be in very poor health. He has also been denied treatment for Hepatitis B.

Furthermore, Dhondup Wangchen's lawyer has been barred from representing him, casting doubt over the fairness of his trial and the legitimacy of China's judicial system. Tibetans are routinely denied their basic legal rights and sentenced to lengthy prison terms for the peaceful expression of their views.

I join tens of thousands of people worldwide calling on the Chinese government to release Dhondup Wangchen immediately and unconditionally. I further call on China to guarantee that he is not tortured or otherwise ill-treated, and has access to family, legal assistance of his choosing, and any medical care he may require, while he remains in custody.

Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]

Take Action on this Issue

Send this message to:

Secretary Qiang Wei
cc: Chinese Embassies and Consulates

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