Chinese government pressuring Chinese residents in Norway into anti-nobel protests

Chinese diplomats in Norway have been systematically pressurising Chinese residents into joining anti-Nobel demonstrations, which are planned to take place in Oslo on Friday, Amnesty International has learned.   

Amnesty International has been informed by reliable sources in the Chinese diaspora that mainland Chinese residents in Norway have been repeatedly visited and called to meetings over the last two months by representatives of the Chinese government.

The pressure exerted by these representatives is perceived by those visited or attending the meetings as threats, with concrete and serious consequences for the future livelihood of Chinese residents who fail to show up for these demonstrations.

John Peder Egenæs, Director of Amnesty International Norway, said:

“We are shocked that Chinese authorities would bring the oppressive atmosphere of Beijing to Oslo.

“It’s shameful and saddening that Chinese people feel pressured to demonstrate against the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize on a day that should be one of pride and celebration.”