HOUSTON, October 24, 2022 — In partnership with the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston, Asia Society Texas hosted a discussion on the state of human rights in China with Dr. Teng Biao — a human rights lawyer, academic, and specialist in the Chinese criminal justice and political system — in conversation with Ronan O’Malley, Director of Programs for the World Affairs Council of Greater Houston.

Although his activism led to several tribulations, including detention, Dr. Teng said his beliefs have given him the strength to continue his fight for justice and that his experience motivated him to represent and bring awareness to victims and to promote the Rights Defense Movement in China.  

Overview of the state of human rights in China

According to Dr. Teng, the state of human rights has deteriorated in China over the past several years. He noted that scholars, journalists, bloggers, religious groups, activists, and others are monitored and controlled through sophisticated technology. On occasion, the range of that control goes beyond Chinese borders and reaches members of the Chinese diaspora around the world, he stated.

As an example, Dr. Teng shared how his personal life has been affected by his activism. Even while abroad, he has faced personal threats and intimidation regarding academic conferences, papers, and book presentations. He stated that other activists, including Chinese living abroad, suffer similar hardships.

On the topic of the coronavirus pandemic and its consequences, Dr. Teng addressed how it has allowed the Chinese government to increase its control over citizens' movements and actions, particularly through the use of propaganda for legitimacy. In this regard, Dr. Teng spoke on how his personal experience contributed to his questioning of the prevailing media. He added that he considers himself morally obligated to advocate for those without power, and he hopes more people will join democratization movements. 

Technology and privacy

During the pandemic, new technologies have been utilized, allowing the government to monitor the people’s actions and movements. Thanks to these new advancements in surveillance, a citizen can be almost immediately located and identified, undermining personal privacy. O'Malley reminded the audience that some of this technology comes from the United States, which brings into question the role of the West in the development of the Chinese surveillance state.

Dr. Teng noted that a future component of high-tech surveillance is advanced facial recognition software and technology. The issue of facial recognition software turns particularly sensitive when combined with government programs that target specific racial groups or minorities.

Perspectives for Xi’s third term in office

In assessing the upcoming 20th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party and Xi Jinping’s unprecedented third term as president, Dr. Teng underlined that he believes the future of human rights in China is not in Xi's hands alone, but rather in the collective hands of the Chinese Communist Party.

One consequence of the Internet and the development of social media is the public’s increasing awareness of politics, resulting in a potentially more engaged and mindful population. Dr. Teng reflected on how the Communist Party has prioritized economic growth at the expense of political equality and freedom. In his opinion, the future of China will be determined not only by its economy but also by its politics, adding that a political crisis could arise if China is unable to rely on its growing economy.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Teng emphasized the importance of civic engagement and having a commitment to human rights which creates lasting change.

About Asia Society Texas

Asia Society Texas believes in the strength and beauty of diverse perspectives and people. As an educational institution, we advance cultural exchange by celebrating the vibrant diversity of Asia, inspiring empathy, and fostering a better understanding of our interconnected world. Spanning the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, our programming is rooted in the educational and cultural development of our community — trusting in the power of art, dialogue, and ideas to combat bias and build a more inclusive society.