A Slap from the Dutch Parliament to China’s Transnational Repression Policy

Abdurehim Gheni Uyghur

"The road to freedom is not easy. We must pass through the shadows of fear to see the light of hope." > — Nelson Mandela

The recent months have been a journey for me, filled with both grueling trials and historic turning points. On February 14, 2026, I was brutally attacked by Chinese government security personnel at the City Hall in The Hague. Being pinned down, with my neck and arms wrenched, was clear proof that China’s transnational repression has now penetrated the heart of Europe and even its democratic institutions. However, today I speak not as a victim, but as one declaring the victory of justice.

A Promise Kept: From the Iftar Table to the Parliamentary Podium

I first met the Honorable Stephan van Baarle, Member of the Dutch Parliament and leader of the DENK party, on February 27, 2026, at an Iftar event in The Hague to which I was officially invited. During that meeting, I detailed the brutal violence I had endured at the hands of Chinese security agents during my peaceful protest on February 14. I showed him video evidence and requested that the threat of China’s transnational repression against Uyghurs living in the Netherlands be brought to the parliamentary agenda. Mr. Van Baarle promised me that day that he would take action.

Stephan van Baarle kept his word. On April 16, he raised my case in the Dutch Parliament, addressing the Foreign Affairs Minister, Tom Berendsen, with sharp questions and demanding a clear stance from the government. Thanks to his efforts, a motion was submitted and subsequently passed on April 21 with a massive majority of 116 out of 150 votes. These 116 votes are a powerful signal to China: a resounding declaration that freedom will not be suffocated on Dutch soil.

Reuniting in Parliament

Yesterday, May 11, 2026, I met with Mr. Stephan van Baarle again in his parliamentary office. During our meeting, he provided me with detailed information about the parliamentary debate, the positive responses from the Minister, and the significance of this decision for the safety of the Uyghur diaspora. This meeting once again proved that we, the Uyghurs, are not alone in our legal and moral struggle.

Government Commitment and Legal Protection

The response from the Dutch Foreign Affairs Minister, the Honorable Tom Berendsen, was deeply heartening. His explicit acknowledgment of the brutal violence I faced and his confirmation that I, along with other activists in similar positions, will be fully protected under Dutch law provided me with great solace. This is a powerful recognition of democracy and a timely slap in the face of the Chinese government. Through this, the Netherlands has sent a strong message to the world: We will never allow the "long arm of Beijing" to undermine our democracy!

Victory Belongs to the Determined

This victory is the result of an iron will prevailing over fear. If the Chinese aggressors thought they could silence us through violence, they have failed miserably; as of today, their policy of transnational repression has ended in international disgrace.

This success is the fruit of my consistent resistance against the colonialist and genocidal policies of the Chinese government—a resistance I maintained despite years of death threats, psychological pressure, and the blackmailing of my family members by China’s long arm.

While this may appear to be my personal victory, it is in fact the collective triumph of all Uyghurs standing against transnational repression and for everyone who upholds justice. I want to emphasize: if we remain silent out of fear while living in free countries, the Chinese government will move to extinguish our voices step by step. However, if we protect ourselves through the law and make justice our banner, democratic laws will surely protect us. I have witnessed this firsthand through the Dutch Parliament and Government, to whom I express my deepest gratitude.

We must let China know: they cannot silence us anywhere. They cannot extinguish our voices. Our struggle is a righteous fight against the colonialism and injustice of the Chinese government. I will never cease my struggle against China until the Uyghurs achieve complete freedom and independence.

Date: May 13, 2026

https://x.com/abdurehimgheni/status/2054316383127674967?s=46