China Imposes Sanctions Against Two Canadian Organizations and 20 Associated Personnel

Ottawa, Canada – BREAKING – China has announced the imposition of countermeasures against two Canadian organizations and 20 individuals associated with them, as outlined in a statement published on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website on Saturday. These actions are being taken under China’s Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law.

The two Canadian organizations these measures target are the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project and the Canada Tibet Committee. Among those sanctioned are URAP’s, Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project, Executive Director Mehmet Tohti, Policy and Advocacy Director Jasmine Kainth, legal advisors David Matas, Sarah Teich, John Packer, Clive Ansley, Yonah Diamond, Justine Bernatchez, and Linden Dales. Also included are Policy Advisors Charles Burton, Margarett Mccuaig Johnston, Marcus Kolga, and Scott Simon, along with research advisors Conor Healy and Geoffrey Aharon – making a total of 15 individuals connected to URAP.

This move follows Canada’s recent sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act on December 10, 2024. These sanctions targeted individuals who are former or current senior Chinese officials involved in gross and systematic human rights violations in China.

URAP Executive Director, Mehmet Tohti responded, stating: “We accept the sanctions as a badge of honour. They do not deter us but rather strengthen our determination. This confirms that we are on the right path. We extend our deepest gratitude to our advisors for their hard work and dedication.”

URAP will continue to commit to advocacy and accountability in light of China’s countermeasures, the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project (URAP) remains steadfast in its mission to raise awareness and advocate for the protection of human rights, particularly in relation to the treatment of Uyghurs in China. The organization is committed to continuing its efforts to push for further sanctions against the Chinese government in response to human rights violations.

Executive Director Tohti reaffirmed, “This attack on our organization only strengthens our resolve. We will continue to work with the Government of Canada, international agencies, and human rights organizations around the world to demand accountability for the atrocities taking place in China. Our work will not stop until there is an end to this regime's abuse of human rights.”

URAP emphasized its commitment to leveraging all available platforms to highlight the plight of the Uyghurs, hold the Chinese government accountable, and push for meaningful change.

Media Contact:

Mehmet Tohti  

Executive Director, Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project (URAP)  

mehmet@urap.ca  - 613-261- 8512