We are concerned by the trial of Gao Zhen, a prominent contemporary artist, on charges of "slandering heroes and martyrs" relating to satirical sculptures he created more than a decade before the offence under which he is charged was introduced into law.
The case against him raises concerns with regard to retroactive application of criminal law and use of criminal sanctions to punish artistic expression, undermining the principle of legality. We are further concerned by reports that his health is deteriorating in detention and urge the authorities to release him immediately and unconditionally. We also call for the lifting of the exit ban that has been imposed on his family.
Gao Zhen was arrested in August 2024 and remains in detention pending judgment following the conclusion of his closed-door trial on 30 March 2026
We also note the release of human rights lawyer Yu Wensheng on 13 April after he completed a 36-month sentence on charges of "inciting subversion of State power". It is crucial that his release is unconditional, that any related restrictions on him and his wife Xu Yan, including on freedom of movement and expression, are lifted, and that they are free from surveillance.
We also urge the Chinese authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all other individuals currently detained for peacefully exercising their rights, including under the vague and overly broad provisions related to "inciting subversion" and "picking quarrels and provoking trouble".
