This is the second article of a 3 part series, taken from an interview with Mr. Dolkun Isa. Here is the

In a world that is moulded by an ever increasing engagement and disengagement between countries, issues such as human rights violations are sadly the letter of the law. In this complex intersection of international politics, that has a perennial quest for fulfilling national interests, a country’s ideological principles and its actual practice in international relations might be completely divergent. Now, with international politics characterised by uncertainties and with many players vying for hegemony, vulnerable communities need protection more than ever. 

This complex interplay of different variables in the international arena can be linked to the Uyghur community as well. Once we do that, it becomes evident how geopolitical tensions can permeate various aspects of society. As international pressure mounts against human rights abuses, the Uyghur issue serves as a stark reminder of how geopolitical decisions can affect vulnerable populations and raise ethical questions on a global scale. It reinforces the need for continued vigilance and cooperation in addressing geopolitical challenges for a more equitable and sustainable world.

Silent Stance Amidst Celebration: Examining Countries' Response to the Uyghur Crisis

Amidst the current situation and the recent celebration of the World Uyghur Congress's anniversary, plans were in place to mark this significant occasion. Pictures emerged showing colleagues from the World Uyghur Congress at the Turkish Parliament, seemingly 

. However, disappointment followed as the Turkish Parliament later rejected the establishment of a special committee to address persecution against Uyghurs. 

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Uyghur student protest in Urumchi, 1988

The complexities of international relations have further complicated matters, particularly considering China's escalating economic and geopolitical influence. The silence of certain countries, especially Muslim nations, on the Uyghur issue has raised questions about their stance. Are these countries playing a double game by balancing their interests between China and the plight of the Uyghur community? 

Amidst this landscape, the ongoing fight for Uyghur rights faces immense challenges. The reluctance of certain nations to take a firm stand against China's actions adds further obstacles to the pursuit of justice and accountability. As the international community grapples with these complexities, the future of Uyghur rights remains uncertain.

most Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries align with the Chinese government's stance

, but there are variations in their positions. Turkey, for example, displays somewhat supportive stances at times but may also remain silent. Turkey, aware of the Uyghur situation and sharing language and culture, has significant public support for the Uyghur cause. However, the government's position can fluctuate.

While Turkey had not signed joint statements concerning the Uyghur issue before 2022, it eventually signed a joint statement last year, marking a positive development. The rejection of the genocide resolution in the Turkish parliament is due to political divisions rather than indifference to the Uyghur cause.

Different Muslim countries have diverse stances on the Uyghur issue. Some countries, like Malaysia and Somalia, have occasionally spoken up and supported Uyghur resolutions. On the other hand, the economic interests of many Muslim countries often lead them to align with China, despite being aware of the atrocities against Islam in China. Additionally, some of these countries face their own human rights issues, making them hesitant to criticise China's actions openly. For example, countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Indonesia, and Pakistan have continuously supported China.

OIC has refrained from criticising China on the Uyghur issue

Disappointing Central Asian Response: Neglecting Historical Connections

Similarly, despite the Uyghurs' significant historical and cultural connections to many Central Asian and Turkic countries, the response from these states and non-state actors has been disappointing. Despite the potential avenues for support, these external actors have failed to take significant actions to improve the condition of the Uyghur community. As the Uyghurs face dire circumstances in China, the lack of substantial assistance from these countries has contributed to a continued struggle for the Uyghur people.

Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan share strong cultural, linguistic, and historical ties with the Uyghur community. Throughout history, migrations and interactions between these communities have occurred due to various circumstances. Unfortunately, many Central Asian countries are heavily dependent on China for economic and military support, leading them to support China on the Uyghur issue. Uyghurs in these countries face restrictions on political activism and can only engage in cultural and linguistic activities. However, even cultural activism is sometimes suppressed under pressure from China.

Civil society movements in Central Asia are increasingly advocating for human rights and democratic reforms, and the younger generations are realising the dangers of China's influence on national sovereignty. Cooperating with civil society and raising awareness about the atrocities faced by the Uyghur community are essential steps towards change. It is hoped that one day these countries will recognize the importance of standing up against China's actions and protecting their own national sovereignty.

Amidst the complexities of geopolitics and economic interests, external actors can contribute to enhancing the living conditions of the Uyghur community in China through various avenues:

 Nations can exert diplomatic pressure on China to address human rights abuses and seek accountability for the atrocities committed against the Uyghur community. Engaging in dialogue, signing joint statements, and passing resolutions demonstrate solidarity and advocate for justice.

 Nations can impose targeted economic sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for the Uyghur genocide. Restricting trade with companies linked to forced labour can have a significant impact on holding perpetrators accountable.

 Non-state actors can provide support and resources to civil society organisations that raise awareness about the Uyghur cause and advocate for human rights. Funding and collaboration with grassroots movements amplify their efforts.

 Encouraging academic and cultural exchanges between Uyghurs and other communities fosters understanding and solidarity. These exchanges help counter China's attempts to suppress Uyghur culture and identity.

 Non-state actors can use their platforms to raise awareness about the Uyghur issue, dispel misinformation, and highlight the plight of the Uyghur community. Reporting on human rights abuses ensures accurate information reaches a global audience

The Grave Reality of Forced labour: Exploiting the Uyghur Community

Economic interests have undeniably shaped countries' actions, even when it comes to addressing the disturbing issue of forced labour in East Turkestan. On a smaller scale, consumers have become unwitting participants in this unethical practice, using products manufactured in forced labour camps. However, amidst this grim reality, there emerges a glimmer of hope in the form of "

", an artificial intelligence system designed to detect and remove goods produced through forced labour from global supply chains. This innovative technology offers a chance to ensure that consumers can support fair labour practices and make a meaningful impact in the fight against forced labour.

Forced labour stands as a major issue facing the Uyghur people. For years, the Chinese government 

detained over 3 million Uyghurs in concentration camps

, subjecting them to indoctrination, psychological and physical torture, and the erasure of their national and religious identities. The indoctrination was relentless, aiming to enforce loyalty to the Chinese Communist Party and its leader, Xi Jinping. In 2019, the situation took a distressing turn as the Chinese government established factories inside or near these concentration camps, exploiting the Uyghurs as forced labour. Among the worst-hit industries is textiles, which heavily relies on 25% of its global production from Uyghur forced labour. Disturbingly, around 47% of solar panel production is also linked to Uyghur forced labour.

Unveiling Complicity: Companies Linked to Uyghur Forced labour

The scale of the issue is further exacerbated by the involvement of numerous international brands. According to a report by the World Uyghur Congress in October last year, approximately 640 international brands have been directly linked to Uyghur forced labour. This vast database allows for identifying companies associated with forced labour. Despite this evidence, some companies continue to deny any connection to forced labour, claiming to uphold human rights and international law. However, these assertions ring hollow as the Chinese government restricts independent investigations into the region.

In response to these atrocities, the U.S. Congress passed the 

, which has not only impacted the U.S. but also influenced other countries to halt the import of products from the Xinjiang region. Despite these efforts, companies often find alternative routes to export products indirectly, using other countries as conduits. Their primary motivation remains profit, prioritising financial gains over moral obligations or human rights concerns.

 House Approves Bill Targeting China Over Uyghur Forced Labor

For instance, goods may be rerouted to the United States or other countries like Mexico or Canada, exploiting border institutions and consumer demand. Companies like McDonald's and 

 have faced scrutiny, with some of their products allegedly linked to Uyghur forced labour. Consumers inadvertently contribute to this issue by purchasing goods without verifying their origins, unknowingly supporting companies involved in these unethical practices.

Companies and brands linked to Uyghur forced labour

Collective Responsibility: Empowering Consumers to Drive Change

While countries and organisations play crucial roles in addressing forced labour, individuals have significant power in supporting this cause. Consumers can become catalysts for change by participating in grassroots movements, boycotting companies associated with forced labour, and using social media to exert pressure on corporations. By choosing not to buy products made with forced labour and verifying the origin of goods, individuals can contribute significantly to the fight against human rights abuses.

Even seemingly insignificant daily choices can make a difference. From abstaining from using ketchup at a fast-food restaurant like McDonald's that may have links to Uyghur forced labour to being mindful of the origin of clothes and masks, every decision counts. By refusing to support practices linked to forced labour, consumers can take a stand against China's oppressive policies and curb its territorial ambitions.

The fight against ongoing genocide, oppression, and human rights abuses extends beyond geographical borders. While it may not single-handedly end these atrocities, taking a stand against forced labour is a collective responsibility that benefits the entire world. By supporting ethical practices and refusing to participate in systems that exploit vulnerable communities, consumers can send a powerful message that upholds human rights for all.

Stay tuned for the final article of this 3 part series!

Upholding Uyghur Rights: Navigating Geopolitics, Economic Interests and International Support

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