Uyghur Rights and Sino-Canadian Relations
Discussions focus on China's alleged forced labor in Xinjiang, impacting the diplomatic relationship between Canada and China.
January 2019
Chinese diplomat Jiang Duan speaks to UNHCR in Geneva
Jiang Duan, a Chinese diplomat, told UNHCR delegates in Geneva that China's experience in Xinjiang could be introduced to other countries. This referred to China's system of internment camps targeting Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples.
Source ↗January 2021
House of Commons motion on genocide passed
The House of Commons declared that China's treatment of Uyghurs amounted to genocide. This resolution was previously passed by the Canadian legislature.
Source ↗March 2022
UN Report cites China's serious human rights violations
A 2022 report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights stated that China committed serious human rights violations in Xinjiang. These violations were noted as potentially amounting to crimes against humanity.
Source ↗January 2024
Chinese government recorded 3.34 million labor transfers in Xinjiang
Chinese government data recorded 3.34 million instances of transfers into labor placements in Xinjiang. These transfers are part of the state-imposed forced labor system.
Source ↗February 2026
UN experts noted coercion severity may amount to enslavement
United Nations experts noted that the severity of coercion related to the Uyghurs could amount to enslavement. This was noted in early 2026.
Source ↗UN experts noted coercion severity approaches enslavement
United Nations experts noted that the severity of coercion within the context of Uyghur labor transfers could amount to enslavement. This was noted in early 2026.
Source ↗April 2026
Mark Carney declined to comment on genocide accusation
Mark Carney was questioned about whether he agreed with the 2021 House of Commons motion concerning genocide. He declined to answer but acknowledged fundamental issues regarding China’s treatment of the Uyghurs.
Source ↗Michael Ma challenged forced labor reports on EVs
Liberal MP Michael Ma cast doubt on reports of forced labor in China. This occurred during a meeting of the Commons industry committee examining a tariff deal for Chinese-made electric vehicles.
Source ↗Rushan Abbas challenges Michael Ma regarding Uyghur forced labor
Rushan Abbas, representing the Campaign for Uyghurs, challenged MP Michael Ma regarding forced labor in China. Abbas published an open letter detailing allegations of Uyghur genocide and forced labor.
Source ↗UN experts stated conditions may amount to enslavement
UN experts reportedly stated that conditions concerning the Uyghurs may constitute enslavement. This statement was referenced in the open letter published by Rushan Abbas.
Source ↗