International PEN is seriously concerned about the detention of Internet writer and activist Guo Quan, who has reportedly been held on charges of “inciting subversion” since November 13, 2008. PEN fears that Guo Quan may be held for his online writings, and if so, calls for his immediate and unconditional release in accordance with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China is a signatory.

Background Information

According to the PEN’s information, Guo Quan was arrested at his home in Nanjing, capital of Jiangsu Province, on November 13, 2008. His wife reports that he has been charged with “inciting subversion of state power,” a charge commonly used to suppress dissent. It is feared that he may be detained for views expressed on his blog, in which he allegedly called for democracy and criticized the Nanjing government for its decision to build a chemical plant in the city. Others suspect that the charges could be linked to his role in organizing a new political party, the China Xinmin Party, in December 2007.
 
At the time of his arrest, the police confiscated Guo Quan’s articles and his computer. It is believed that Guo Quan is currently being held at Nanjing City Public Security Bureau.
 
Guo Quan was previously detained by  Chinese authorities for ten days in May 2008 for “violating of public order.” He is a professor at Nanjing University; however, due to his political activities he has been banned from teaching.

Write A Letter

  • Expressing serious concern regarding the arrest of Internet writer and activist Guo Quan;
  • Calling for his immediate and unconditional release if held in violation of his right to freedom of expression, as guaranteed by Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which China is a signatory.

Send Your Letter To

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

Mr. Meng Jianzhu
Minister of the Public Security
East Chang'an Avenue 14
100741 Beijing
P.R. China
 
Please note that fax numbers are no longer available for the Chinese authorities, so you may wish to ask the diplomatic representative for China in your country to forward your appeals and welcoming any comments.

Please check with PEN if sending appeals after January 2, 2008: ftw[at]pen.org