Australian writer Yang Hengjun has been handed a suspended death sentence by a Chinese court, marking five years since his arrest on charges of spying. The sentence carries the possibility of commutation to life imprisonment after two years, as per Australian officials.
Dr. Yang Hengjun, a scholar and novelist who extensively blogged about Chinese state affairs, vehemently denies the undisclosed charges against him. The Australian government expressed profound dismay at the verdict. Foreign Minister Penny Wong summoned China’s Ambassador to Australia, seeking an explanation, and pledged to communicate Australia’s response to Beijing in the strongest terms.
“We have consistently called for basic standards of justice, procedural fairness and humane treatment for Dr Yang, in accordance with international norms and China’s legal obligations,” stated Minister Wong.
Australia has previously voiced concerns about Yang’s treatment, but China’s foreign ministry cautioned against interference in the case, stressing respect for the nation’s judicial sovereignty.
Supporters of Dr. Yang contend that his detention is a form of political persecution due to his criticism of human rights abuses in China and advocacy for universal values such as human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Formerly associated with China’s Ministry of State Security, Yang Hengjun earned the nickname “democracy peddler,” although his writings typically avoided direct criticisms of the government. His arrest occurred in January 2019 at the Guangzhou airport during a visit with his wife and her child, both Chinese citizens.
The 58-year-old’s case unfolded mostly behind closed doors, including a secret trial in 2021. Elaine Pearson, Asia Director of Human Rights Watch, raised concerns about due process violations, emphasising delayed and limited access to legal representation, a closed-door trial, and allegations of torture and forced confessions by Yang himself.
While avenues of appeal remain open, Dr. Yang’s health reportedly deteriorates, with claims that he is not receiving adequate medical treatment, as stated by his Australian-based sons.