10 March 2009 is the 50th anniversary of the failed Tibetan uprising in 1959 which led to the Dalai Lama fleeing to India.

Last year’s anniversary saw widespread protests across the region that lead to arbitrary arrests and numerous reports of human rights violations. These violations included prolonged detention and imprisonment, torture and other ill-treatment.

Based on official statistics, the Chinese authorities have released 3,027 of the 4,434 people detained in March 2008. Testimonies of those released tell a story of desperate prison conditions including beatings, refusal of medical treatment and inadequate food and drink.
To mark the 50th anniversary, Amnesty International is offering:

- A Media Briefing document, which will provide background on the human rights situation as well as Amnesty International’s recommendations to the Chinese authorities;

- Spokespeople available for interviews or background briefings in the UK and Asia-Pacific time zones.