International PEN is seriously concerned about the detention of activist and dissident writer Hu Jia, who was arrested on December 27, 2007, on suspicion of “inciting subversion of state power.” He may be detained for reports and commentaries published online on various social issues. Hu suffers from poor health, and PEN seeks assurances of his well-being. PEN fears that he may be held in violation of Article 19 of the United Nations International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China is a signatory, and if so, PEN calls for his immediate and unconditional release.

More information: 

Activist Hu Jia Arrested in China: Number of Jailed Writers Rises to 42
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Women Under Surveillance in China

Background Information

Leading Beijing-based human-rights activist and freelance reporter Hu Jia was arrested from his home by the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau on December 27, 2007, on "suspicion of incitement to subvert state power." Although no official reason has been given for his arrest, it is thought he may be charged for his online reporting on human-rights issues.

Hu and his wife, Zeng Jinyan, were placed under residential surveillance on May 18, 2007, as they were about to set off on a European tour to promote their documentary film Prisoners of Freedom City. Hu is known for his activities on environmental and AIDS issues, and was briefly detained in February 2006.

Hu Jia is held incommunicado at the Beijing Municipal Detention Center, and there are fears for his health. Hu Jia suffers from long-term health problems including cirrhosis of the liver, and there are fears that his condition could seriously deteriorate in prison. Hu Jia’s family have also been subjected to harassment and severe restrictions of movement since his arrest, and there are serious concerns for his wife, Zeng Jingyan, who has a one-month-old baby and is now under effective house arrest.

Write A Letter

  • expressing serious concerns about the detention of activist and dissident writer Hu Jia, and calling for his immediate and unconditional release if held in violation of Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China became a signatory in 1998;
  • expressing concern for his health and seeking assurances of his well-being;
  • protesting the reported harassment of Hu’s family.

Send Your Letter To

President of the People’s Republic of China
His Excellency Hu Jintao
State Council
Beijing 100032
P.R. China

Supreme People's Procuratorate
Procurator General Mr. Jia Chunwang
Supreme People's Procuratorate
Beiheyan Street 147
100726 Beijing
P.R. China

Please note that there are no fax numbers for the Chinese authorities. PEN recommends that you copy your appeal to the Chinese embassy in your country , asking them to forward it and welcoming any comments.

Please check with PEN if sending appeals after January 31, 2008: ftw [at] pen.org