Tibet's longest-serving female prisoner of conscience released

Amnesty International

Amnesty International today welcomed the release from prison on 24 February 2004 of Phuntsog Nyidron, Tibet's longest-serving female political prisoner. However, the organization stressed that she should not have been imprisoned in the first place for her peaceful protests, and once again called upon the Chinese government to release all prisoners of conscience.

"Phuntsog Nyidron is one of several Tibetan prisoners of conscience in recent years to have been released before serving their full sentence," Amnesty International emphasized. "This is extremely encouraging for all those who have campaigned on her behalf."

Phuntsog Nyidron was due for release in March 2005. The formal reason for her early release remains unclear, but the Chinese authorities have reportedly said that it is a "humanitarian gesture". China frequently releases high-profile prisoners in the run-up to important political and diplomatic occasions. It is thought that the timing of her release may be connected to the upcoming session of the UN Commission on Human Rights as well as the EU-China human rights dialogue which is currently taking place in Dublin.

"Of course her release is welcomed, but the cynical timing of her release as China's human rights record comes under international scrutiny is indicative of China's attitude towards prisoners of conscience," Amnesty International said.